The Chattooga County Extension Office is encouraging local residents to start preparing now for spring gardening, sharing a few simple steps that can make planting season smoother and more productive across Northwest Georgia.

In a recent update, the office emphasized the value of creating a garden plan before the first seeds go in the ground. Sketching out your garden plot helps homeowners and growers think through what to plant, where to place it, and what changes or additions they’d like to make compared to last year.

Extension staff also recommends servicing garden equipment ahead of time so you don’t lose momentum once you begin working beds. Taking care of tillers, weed eaters, and other tools now can prevent frustrating breakdowns during peak spring prep.

Another key step: get a soil test. The Extension Office notes that soil tests are easy and convenient, and they help ensure the soil has what your vegetables and plants need to thrive. Results can guide improvements that boost plant health and increase yields by the end of the growing season.