ILLINOIS (RFD) — Gardeners of all types are getting the itch to get into the garden this year and a University of Illinois master gardener has some advice on what you can be doing this time of the year. Candice Hart, Master Gardener at the U of I Extension says right now is a great time to get the leftover leaves or remains of last year’s plants out of the garden. As you make plans to prepare the ground, Hart points out many gardeners are choosing not to till these days as it brings up new weeds and could have an impact on your soil structure.

If you are looking to get something started, Hart says getting some seeds started in pots or totes are becoming increasingly popular. There’s a variety of things you could get started at this time of the year.

If you are going to start your plants out in pots or seed pods, you’ll need to keep them at a southern or western facing window so they get plenty of sunlight. While you might be tempted to water them every day, Hart indicates that isn’t entirely necessary.