Your Spring 2025 Garden — Tips from a Mortgage Broker Who Digs More Than Rates

Mortgage advice and garden tips? Yup, that’s what you get when you work with a local broker who cares about more than just interest rates.

Spring is in full swing here on Vancouver Island, and if you’re itching to get your hands in the dirt, here are a few tricks I love for maximizing your garden’s success—especially if you’re a busy homeowner like me.

Three Smart Spring Gardening Tips:

1. Wait Before You Plant

• Your instinct might be to plant at the first sign of sun, but patience pays off. Waiting two weeks can give your seeds the uninterrupted growth phase they need. Not sure when to plant? Use the Farmer’s Almanac planting calendar based on your postal code!

2. Plan Your Layout Like a Pro

• Tall plants go north, short ones south. That way, everything gets sunshine.

• Use string dividers and give each plant enough space.

• Try this 71-vegetable layout guide to plan it all out.

  
  

3. Fight Weeds Before They Start

• No one has time for weekend-long weeding. Lay down cardboard and top with mulch to block weeds before they even show up. If you’re short on mulch, lawn clippings or fall leaves do the trick.

Why Does a Mortgage Broker Talk About Gardening?

Because homeownership isn’t just about mortgage payments. It’s about feeling grounded, thriving where you’re planted, and building a life that brings you joy. Whether you’re refinancing, upsizing, or simply planting roots—your home is where it all begins.

Let me help you grow more than just your garden this year.

Reach out if you’re looking for mortgage advice, planning a home renovation, or exploring your options. I’m happy to chat, even from the garden!

— Rachel Cousins, Your Local Mortgage Broker & Garden Enthusiast