Investing in Your Garden: A Beginner’s Guide with Beth Combs of Arlie’s Farm
Beth Combs, the passionate gardener behind Arlie’s Farm, believes that gardening is more than just a hobby—it's an investment in your family, your health, and your community. In 2018, Beth and her family purchased Arlie’s Farm with the goal of sharing their love for gardening with others. Named in honor of her father, the farm is a thriving greenhouse, venue, air bnb and gathering place for friends and family. Here, she shares her top tips for new gardeners looking to get started.
Start Small & Expect Weeds
The best advice for a new gardener? “Grow what your family will eat,” Beth says. “If they won’t enjoy the harvest, why plant it?” Getting kids involved makes it even better. “Make it fun. Make it simple. Make it your new passion.”
Soil Comes First—It’s Your Foundation
Good soil is everything. “There’s no point planting if your soil is the problem,” she says. “Till or hoe, then add compost.” Years ago, Beth repurposed a Little Tikes toy as her compost bin. “Coffee grounds, eggshells, veggie scraps—perfect. Just no meat or dairy.”
Plan Before You Plant—A Smart Investment
Some plants don’t grow well together. “Learn about companion planting. Some plants are picky about their neighbors!” Mapping out the garden first is key. Many plants need space or support to grow—some stretch out, while others grow upward. “And be careful with tall plants,” Beth warns. “I once planted okra, corn, and sunflowers near my bell peppers. They cast too much shade, and the peppers struggled.”
Quick Returns on Your Effort
For beginners, she suggests sunflowers, lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers. “Tried-and-true seeds and a sunny window—it’s magic.” And for those wondering, “Should cucumbers go in shade or sun?” her answer is simple: “Depends… do you want cucumbers? Sun!”
A Legacy Worth Growing
Beth’s passion for gardening runs deep. In 2018, she and her family bought Arlie’s Farm. “This farm was an investment for future generations” she says. She believes in teaching children to be hands on in the garden. “That’s an investment for their future health and values for life.”
Follow her journey at @ArliesFarmLLC on Facebook.