Welcome back to The Messed-Up Gardener – your go-to podcast and mini masterclasses for all things gardening! I'm your host, Esther Williams, and in today’s episode, we’re diving into the essential things every beginner gardener should know before putting a single seed in the soil.

Starting a veggie garden can feel a bit overwhelming, especially if you're short on space, time, or confidence. But don’t worry—I’m breaking it down step-by-step so you can feel empowered, not stressed. In this episode, we’ll cover seven key considerations to help you set your garden up for success, including:

🌿 Choosing the right location and understanding sunlight
 🌿 Building healthy soil and testing pH
 🌿 Planting with the seasons and knowing your climate
 🌿 Watering wisely and planning for ongoing maintenance
 🌿 Keeping pests and critters out—naturally
 🌿 Managing your time realistically so gardening fits your lifestyle
 🌿 Tapping into gardening communities for support and advice

Plus, I share a few exciting updates on my consulting office setup and the success of our mushroom-growing kits in local high schools—so if you’re a teacher, homeschooler, or know someone who might benefit, let’s connect!

Whether you’re planning a lush backyard garden or a few pots on a balcony, this episode will give you the tools and confidence to grow your own food with joy and purpose.

🌱 Remember, gardening can happen in any space, any place, and on any budget.

If you loved this episode, share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more garden-curious folks find their way to our messy, magical world of growing.

💬 Join the Conversation:
Let’s keep the chat going! Share your thoughts, garden wins, or questions with me on @themessedupgardener or #esther.aitken on Instagram, TikTok or find me on Facebook Esther Williams

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The Messed Up Gardener Or Shesther’s Mushrooms 

Or Grab 

·      A Step by Step guide on how to create your own DIY self-watering planters

https://stan.store/EstherA/p/create-your-own-diy-self-watering-garden-planters

Don’t forget to grab one of my gardening freebees.   

Freebies: Grab the 

-         "12 Essential Tips for a Thriving Garden: From Planning to Harvest" Practical Tips to Help You Grow a Flourishing Garden 

-         https://stan.store/EstherA 

-         Organic gardening Cheat Sheet: Natural methods for chemical free cultivation https://stan.store/EstherA

-         Garden Goals Planning Worksheet - https://stan.store/EstherA/p/get-my-garden-goals-planning-worksheet-now

Gardening can happen in any space, in any place, and on any budget.