DIY Gardening Tips & Trends For A Fun, Fresh Garden

Gardening doesn't have to be a chore — in fact, planting and caring for flowers, vegetables, fruits and trees can be incredibly fun and rewarding. Dennis Patton, horticulture agent at Kansas State University Research and Extension feels that gardening should be both enjoyable and entertaining. Named by the National Association of County Agricultural Agents as one of the top columnists in the nation for 2010-11 and a regular contributor to KC Gardener Magazine, Patton enjoys sharing expert tips, no-nonsense advice and glints of humor with the world.

Photo: Kansas State University

You'll be able to hear him speak about picking and maintaining the right trees and visit his booth at the Johnson County Home & Garden Show on Feb. 28 - March 2, 2014 at the Overland Park Convention Center, but first, check out some of the nuggets of gardening wisdom he shared with us below.

Why should someone stop by and see you at the show?

Our booth, Johnson County K-State Extension Master Gardeners is a fun booth that does not sell a product. Instead, it promotes the joy of gardening. This year's booth will feature herbs. We are hoping to have many fresh herbs on display which can be grown in the home landscape and then used in cooking and other uses.

What is the most important trend this year and for spring?

Color, adding more color to the landscape and decorative containers that are easy to care for all year.

Photo: Kansas State University

If someone wanted to make one change to their home or garden this year, what should it be?

Concentrate more on the fun, enjoyment and benefits of planting and growing, not the concept of hard work.

When planning a new garden space, what is the most important first step?

Determine your wants. What do you want from the space? Go there. Don't concentrate on plants, but your lifestyle and how to make the space work for you.

Name 5 major DIY organic gardening tips that anyone could take advantage of right now.

1. Right plant, right place. Healthy plants have fewer problems.
2. Grow good roots and the top takes care of itself.
3. Keep weeds at bay.
4. Properly space plants for good air circulation.
5. Do not worry about the bugs, as most are beneficial and tolerate a little damage. Share.

In your opinion, what are the most essential gardening tools?

A garden trowel, kitchen knife and pruning shears.

Describe our Home Show in one word.

Dreamland!

Don’t miss Dennis Patton at our Johnson County Home & Garden Show (Feb. 28 - March 2)!

FOR 2-FOR-1 TICKETS TO THE SHOW CLICK HERE & SAVE!