7 Easy-To-Grow Plants for Beginning Gardeners

By Francesca Singer, landscape architect and organic farmer

Instead of searching for the fountain of youth, maybe Ponce de León should have spent his time looking for the garden of youth. Research shows people who dig gardening live longer, healthier lives. Studies show a session spent digging in a flower bed is as uplifting as structured exercise. Soil microbes contain antidepressant properties and a healthy dose of vitamin D improves your mood. But successful gardening requires a certain level of skill. A garden that fails to thrive can have a negative effect, creating feelings of inadequacy or failure. Aspiring gardeners would be well advised to start with a few plants that are hardy and undemanding. Build a foundation with these seven starter plants.

1. Beans

Bean varieties run the gamut from slender haricot verts to big, burly favas. But there are only two types of bean plants: pole or bush. Pole beans are climbers that need a trellis or some sort of support, while bush beans are self-supporting. A dozen bean plants given ample sunlight and adequate water can produce enough beans for a family of three. Harvesting mature beans daily will ensure a higher yield, and any beans left on the plant can be picked later for seeds or dry beans. Best of all, legumes naturally fertilize the soil, paving the way for more bountiful future gardens.