Editorial Policy

Who We Are

Simple Garden Joy operates as a dedicated editorial team focused on delivering practical, accessible gardening guidance for home gardeners of all experience levels. Our approach prioritizes transparency and research-backed information over individual credentials.

Our Editorial Process

Every article published on our site follows a rigorous process:

  1. Research Phase — We gather information from authoritative horticultural sources including university extension services (such as Penn State Extension, UC Davis Master Gardener Program), USDA resources, botanical gardens, and peer-reviewed agricultural publications.
  2. Content Development — Our editorial team creates comprehensive drafts using AI-assisted writing tools, ensuring consistency and coverage of key gardening topics. We are transparent about using AI as a research and drafting assistant.
  3. Fact Verification — All plant care instructions, growing zones, planting times, and gardening techniques are cross-referenced with primary horticultural sources and agricultural extension services.
  4. Plain Language Review — We simplify complex botanical and horticultural terminology to ensure accessibility for readers of all gardening experience levels, without sacrificing accuracy.
  5. Source Citation — Every article includes citations to authoritative gardening organizations, university extensions, and botanical institutions, integrated naturally throughout the content to support key claims.
  6. Seasonal Review Schedule — Gardening practices vary by season and climate zone. We maintain a review calendar to update affected articles annually, ensuring planting schedules and seasonal tips remain current.

Our Expertise Areas

Our editorial team collectively focuses on core gardening knowledge domains:

  • Container & Small Space Gardening — Practical techniques for urban gardeners, apartment dwellers, and those with limited outdoor space
  • Indoor Plants & Houseplants — Care guides, troubleshooting, and selection advice for indoor gardening
  • Edible Gardening — Growing vegetables, herbs, and fruits in home gardens
  • Plant Care & Maintenance — Proper watering, fertilizing, pruning, and pest management
  • Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Practices — Organic gardening, composting, and environmentally conscious techniques

Transparency About AI Use

We believe in transparency about our content creation process. Our team uses AI writing tools (such as Google Gemini) to:

  • Research and compile information from multiple horticultural sources
  • Draft initial article structures and outlines
  • Ensure consistent formatting and readability
  • Generate plant care guides based on established horticultural practices

However: All AI-generated content undergoes human editorial review for accuracy, appropriateness, and alignment with our quality standards. We verify all plant care facts against primary horticultural sources and never publish AI content without verification.

Quality Standards

Gardening advice requires high standards of accuracy and trustworthiness. Our editorial process includes:

  • Primary Source Verification — We cite university extension services, USDA resources, botanical gardens, and established horticultural institutions
  • Growing Zone Accuracy — All planting recommendations are verified against USDA Hardiness Zone maps
  • Seasonal Appropriateness — Planting schedules and care instructions are season-specific and climate-appropriate
  • Correction Policy — If we discover an error in published content, we correct it promptly and note the correction date

Our Commitment to Accuracy

Given the practical nature of gardening content, we hold ourselves to high standards:

  • No Unverified Claims — We don’t publish plant care advice without verification from established horticultural sources
  • Clear Limitations — We acknowledge when growing success depends on local conditions (climate, soil type, microclimate)
  • Update Schedule — Seasonal content is reviewed and updated annually to reflect current best practices

Corrections & Updates

We are committed to maintaining accurate, current information:

  • Error Reporting — If you spot an error or have feedback, please email editorial@simplegardenjoy.com
  • Transparent Corrections — When we correct published content, we note the update date
  • Annual Reviews — Seasonal articles are reviewed each year to ensure current accuracy

Who This Site Is For

Simple Garden Joy is designed for:

  • Beginning Gardeners seeking clear, step-by-step guidance
  • Urban & Container Gardeners with limited space
  • Houseplant Enthusiasts looking for indoor growing advice
  • Home Food Gardeners interested in growing edibles
  • Eco-Conscious Gardeners pursuing sustainable practices

Our Core Values

Accessibility — Gardening should be accessible to everyone, regardless of space or experience level. We provide practical advice that works for real people.

Transparency — We cite our sources, acknowledge when information varies by climate, and admit when we don’t have all the answers. We recommend consulting local extension services for region-specific advice.

Empowerment — Knowledge is power. We provide the information gardeners need to make confident decisions about their plants and growing spaces.

Sustainability — We promote environmentally friendly gardening practices that work in harmony with nature.

Important Disclaimers

Horticultural Information: The information on this website is for educational purposes only. Growing success depends on your local climate, soil conditions, and microenvironment. For region-specific advice, consult your local university extension service.

Plant Safety: Some plants mentioned may be toxic to pets or humans. Always research plant safety before introducing new species to your home or garden, especially if you have children or pets.

Pest & Disease Management: While we provide general guidance, severe plant health issues may require consultation with a local extension service or certified arborist.

Not Affiliated: We are not affiliated with any university extension service, botanical garden, or government agricultural agency. We are an independent educational resource.

Contact Us

We’re here to help! Whether you have a question, need clarification, or want to share feedback:

Email: editorial@simplegardenjoy.com

For general inquiries, visit our Contact Page.

Last Updated: November 2025