Spring Thinking

Spring thinking is in the air! A lot of people say February is the hardest month in Wisconsin. We don't mind the cold -- as long as there's enough snow on the ground to cross-country ski at one of Madison's parks or golf courses -- but we admit it. We can't wait for spring.

Now that March is around the corner, we've got a bad case of spring thinking. We have one thing on our minds: Gardening! The taste of a home-grown tomato, or the orange-blaze burst of tulips from the yard, gathered in a vase on the dining table.

Lucky for us (and you!), that's not just wishful thinking. Though there may still be snow on the ground, it's not too early to get a jump-start on getting your backyard garden ready. Come June, you'll be glad you did!

Here are a few resources to get you started:

• Seed-starting tips from UW Garden Guide
• Best spring planting dates for southern Wisconsin
• Indoor gardening can be fun for the whole family --  here are some tips for parents and teachers

Now... go get your garden on!