It might not seem like spring is here, it’s still colder than it should be and the snow… April has been a brutal month for gardeners who are just itching to get out and clean up the yard for the coming growing season. You might not be able to plant outdoors, but there is much you can do to plan now for a bountiful garden this summer and fall.

If you haven’t already, you can still start seeds. The later spring thaw means we get a little more time to start seedlings indoors. If you have a sunroom, like many of the villas we build in the Twin Cities, you can give them a good start with the sun so strong right now.

The easiest way to start seedlings is using a seed starting kit. You can find them at Menards, Ace Hardware and the big box home improvement stores. These mini greenhouses come with everything you need to start your seeds – except the seeds. You’ll want to choose those yourself. The kits come complete with soil pellets that have all the nutrients your seeds need to turn into healthy plants. Simply add water and the seeds and cover and wait.

Planning a garden has gone high tech. You can now plan your garden long before the ground thaws with just a few clicks of the mouse or taps on your cell phone. The Farmer’s Almanac even has a handy garden planning app you can try for free. Design your own vegetable beds, add plants and move them around with the touch of your finger. It works for raised gardens, square feet gardens and traditional row planting. It’s tailored to your climate and gives you expert advice on planting vegetables, herbs, fruits and flowers.

No matter what kind of garden you’re planning – flower garden, herb garden, or vegetable garden – planning it now, and starting your seeds now, is a great way to put your own creative spin on your garden and get you in the mood for the warmer months.