Whether you’re a gardening expert or can’t keep a succulent alive, today is the day to strive for a greener thumb, celebrate the beauty of plants and embrace the joy of growing something of your own.

With the right conditions and care, anyone who has the curse of killing plants can turn their bad luck into success when it comes to gardening, even in Texas. Just don’t overthink it — water when your plant looks thirsty, and ease off when the soil feels too moist.

For the most part, you can search online for specific watering recommendations for your plants or simply stick your finger into the soil to check how many inches below the surface are dry or damp. This easy trick helps you avoid overwatering or underwatering.

When it comes to outdoor gardening, it’s pretty simple: picking the right plant for your region can save you money, water and a lot of heartache. For indoor plants, keep in mind that the issue might not be watering at all. It could be insufficient sunlight, the need for a larger pot as the roots grow, or even pests. Consider using a plant care app or joining an online plant group to ask experts for advice and get the help you need.

Here’s a beginner’s guide to gardening in Texas to help you get started on National Gardening Day, no matter your level of experience!

More: What is drought? Map shows 82% of Texas land in drought or ‘abnormally dry’

National Gardening Day, founded in 2018 by National Day Calendar and Cool Springs Press, is celebrated on April 14 annually. The day encourages gardeners — and those aspiring to garden — to grab a shovel, plant some seeds and kick off a year of homegrown bounty, according to the National Day Calendar website.

When does Texas reach 100 degrees? Triple digits are coming fast this year. Here’s when Texas normally sees them.

Texas has eight plant hardiness zones, ranging from the cold-hardy northwestern Panhandle to the warmer southern regions.

While the state faces challenges such as drought, unpredictable rainfall and extreme heat, the plant hardiness zone is traditionally determined by the coldest temperatures plants can endure, rather than their tolerance to extreme heat. However, with summer temperatures expected to soar well into the triple digits and potentially reach record-breaking 110+ in some parts of the state, heat tolerance may soon need to be factored into these zones as well.

Ranging from Zone 6a to Zone 10a. Here’s how they break down:

• Zone 6a and 6b – Found in the northernmost parts of the Panhandle and higher elevations.
• Zone 7a and 7b – Cover much of the Panhandle and parts of North and West Texas.
• Zone 8a and 8b – Include Central Texas, parts of North Texas, and much of East Texas.
• Zone 9a and 9b – Found along the Gulf Coast, South Texas, and the Rio Grande Valley.
• Zone 10a – Found in the southern tip of Texas, near Brownsville.

Find your zone by zip code.

There are several ways you can prepare your garden for success when the time is right for you to plant:

• Start growing seeds indoors and move them outside when temperatures warm up enough for comfort.
• Check your soil’s pH level.
• Make a simple garden sketch on paper to ensure the plants you pair together have similar needs (watering, sunlight, etc.).
• Guard your garden from wildlife and other threats by creating barriers and fencing ahead of planting.

It’s best to plant native or at least drought-tolerant plants in your flower bed, as they can endure extreme heat longer and are more effective at conserving water. Native species are also the most beneficial for supporting our pollinators. Birds, reptiles, and rodents thrive on healthy native plant populations, which, in turn, support native animal species.

Common wildflowers like bluebonnets, cosmos, blanket flower, coreopsis, primrose, sunflowers and winecups are great options for creating a thriving, pollinator-friendly garden that also limits water waste.

However, while they may not be native to Texas, introduced species — non-invasive non-natives — can still benefit generalist pollinators like honeybees, which may outcompete native pollinators that rely exclusively on native plants. These non-native plants can thrive in Texas landscapes, with the right care and conditions, and can withstand the state’s heat:

• Lantana
• Zinnias
• Lavender
• Mexican Sunflower
• Honeysuckle
• Snapdragons
• Salvia
• Marigolds
• Dianthus

These plants add color and support general pollinator populations, even though native species are often more beneficial for maintaining local ecosystems.

Because Texas spans multiple growing zones, it’s important to follow the planting schedule for your specific area. While many plants can handle a bit of extra heat or a light freeze, proper timing is still key.

If you purchased seedlings or young plants from a garden center and your zone’s calendar indicates it’s time — or that the date has already passed — go ahead and get them in the ground or your raised bed. It’s not too hot or too early for them.

Here’s what to plant by zone. If you’re looking for another crop, search the seasonality wheel.

Texas produces more than 60 commercial fruit and vegetable crops and more than 600 specialty crops, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture. These vegetables can grow year-round in the Lone Star State, although it certainly varies by climate.

• Leafy greens, including kale, spinach, and green cabbage
• Carrots
• Garlic
• Herbs, including parsley, cilantro, basil, rosemary, mint, and microgreens
• Mushrooms
• Turnips

• Choose the right plants: Opt for native or drought-tolerant species suited to your climate.
• Plant in the right spots: Position plants based on their sunlight and water needs.
• Use efficient irrigation: Drip irrigation is about 95% effective, while sprayer heads are only about 40% effective. Sprinklers waste more water and are much less efficient.
  • Alternative to drip irrigation: If drip irrigation isn’t an option, use a soaker hose, which releases water slowly along its length, allowing for deeper water penetration and less waste.
• Apply mulch: Use mulch to retain moisture, reduce evaporation, and prevent weeds.
  • Sustainable mulch: Pine bark is a great option, as it comes from sawmills where it’s a byproduct of lumber production, making it an eco-friendly choice.