Dear Just Be: April is next week, we just had the spring equinox and I want to get started on my garden- any flower or vegetable tips?

Yes, even though here in Colorado we may still have snow storms, it is technically spring and we are getting antsy as well to get our fingers in the soil!

Nurseries around town are gearing up for spring plantings. We hear that there are a few frost-hardy flowers you could start planting now: Violas, Pansies, Primrose, Snapdragons, Calendulas and more.

This year you could also consider planting flowers and vegetables in the same containers or flower/vegetable beds. By combining flowers with your vegetables you'll spice up your garden and containers with color, texture and beauty.

And speaking of containers, they are a great way to garden if you have limited space. You can grow just about anything in a container that you would typically grow in your garden. The upside of containers is that you can move them for maximum sun exposure. And even bring them inside in case of frost. And remember to think outside the box (or container) - you can grow herbs, flowers, fruits and vegetables in your containers.

Lastly, specific to this time of year, you can start growing the following cool season veggies: carrots, peas, potatoes, asparagus, horseradish, rhubarb, beets, radishes, leaf lettuce and spinach. You can also start out your broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and brussels sprouts. Herbs that will do well being planted now include sage, lavender, mint, oregano and chives.

Remember growing your own food is healthier, can be less expensive than buying the same items in the store and you'll know exactly what you are eating!