![Planting inside the alitex at Ryton Gardens](https://gardenorganic-assets.s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/images/_1200x1200_crop_center-center_60_line/Inside-the-Alitex-09.2020-ft.-RichardSpicer-004_Copyright_ShaunFellows_SHINE-PIX-LTD.jpg)
Expert advice
Getting started with organic gardening
Whether you've just got your first allotment or some pots for your balcony, these steps will help you get started with growing in any setting.
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Assess your space
When evaluating a new garden, allotment or community green space, there are some key features that will help you plan what kind of organic growing space it will be and what to sow and plant.
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Plan to grow
Planning which plants to grow, when to grow them and how to arrange them can be bewildering - whether you’re a new or experienced gardener.
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Choosing your plants
Selecting plants for your garden is one of the most enjoyable parts of gardening. But for growing success, it’s important to think about ‘right plant, right place’.
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Manage your soil
Good soil management is at the heart of organic gardening. This checklist will help you protect and maintain what you have, as well as improving it.
Seasonal advice
Follow our month-by-month guide to garden maintenance or check out our tips and advice for harvesting or dealing with weeds and garden pests.
Your organic garden in April
April is when the growing season really starts to get going, Birdsong, spring blossom and sunshine lift the heart. There are seeds to sow and seedlings to plant out. Enjoy! Beware though of late frosts which can devastate tender new growth.
More for April
How to grow
Follow our expert advice for whatever you want to grow, from lettuce to lawns!
Garden management
We've got advice on managing pests and weeds the organic way, and help with getting started with composting - the cornerstone of organic gardening - seed saving and keeping a wildlife friendly patch.
Growing in your space
From pots to plots, we've got advice on how to grow successfully in your space.