The simplest garden checklist for beginners
You don’t need a backyard. You don’t need hundreds of tools. And you definitely don’t need to do it all at once.
Here’s the Minimalist Gardener way to start your first garden—simple, clear and completely beginner-friendly. It's easy enough to get you going right away.
1. Choose a Space in Your Garden
A sunny balcony, windowsill, courtyard, or small patch of yard - even a pot or container will do.
Pick a spot that has 4-6 hours of sunlight.
2. Pick 2–3 Beginner-Friendly Plants
Start with:
Herbs: basil, chives, basil, parsley, oregano
Edibles: lettuce, spinach, silver beet
Natives (Australia): Strawflowers, correas, native grasses
Stick to plants that suit your climate and are forgiving if you forget to water. Search for 'plant hardiness zone' if you're not sure what your area's climate is.
3. Use the Right Soil in Your Garden
In pots? Use quality potting mix (look for red ticks or certified organic when shopping).
In-ground? Mix in compost or organic matter (like manure) to avoid compacted, dry soil. Mulch after planting.
4. Get just 2-3 Garden Hand Tools to get Started
That’s all you need:
You can always expand later. Start with the garden basics.
5. Water and Watch Your Garden
Check your plants every day or two.
If the top of the soil is dry, give them a drink. If you poke your finger in and it feels damp, give them another day or two. This may be the case in winter.
Morning is best—but don’t stress if you forget sometimes.
6. Take a Minute
Seriously. That’s the goal.
Watch something grow. Snip a few herbs. Sit outside with a cup of tea. Success in the garden is about progress, not perfection.
Too easy, right?
Read next: How to start a garden with no experience