By Jennifer Garrett
Madison Magazine
Special To Channel 3000

In April in Wisconsin, it probably doesn't grow much at all. No worries. To celebrate National Gardening Month, here are seven easy ways to get your green going before the ground thaws.

Start seeds "A lot of gardeners think that April is too late to start seeds, but most folks start them too early," says Karen Johannsen, co-owner of Johannsen's. Seeds started too early might grow into plants that look fine, she says, but they aren't as sturdy as they appear. Lots of folks start veggies, but Johannsen suggests starting flowers, too.

Some will bloom in just eight weeks, so you can have blossoms in your garden soon after you transplant when the ground thaws.

Also try sunflowers for kids: the seeds are big and the growth is pronounced. Johannsen also likes marigolds and zinnias for their ease.

Tip: Start with a soilless seed-starting mix, not dirt, for best results!

Buy a ZZ plant The name is short for Zamioculcas zamiifolia, but it really should be called "EZ" plant. Irene Weisensel, a lifelong gardener and customer service representative for Jung's Garden Centers, says ZZs resemble ferns but with thick waxy leaves instead of feathery fronds. They can handle low light and infrequent waterings, so they are perfect for beginners or people who travel frequently. "It thrives on programmed neglect," Weisensel adds.

Prune Take advantage of a crisp, sunny day by heading outside to trim off broken or crossing branches on shrubs and trees, says Johannsen. Be sure to leave spring-bloomers, like lilacs, alone. Otherwise you'll cut off the buds and you'll miss out on the blossoms.

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