How long should I garden before applying for more cards?

[Anonymous]

So, 3 weeks ago, I decided to do an app spree because I had finally got my credit score with all three bureaus above 730, I wanted to begin to rack up rewards, and my credit file is really thin, so I wanted to build a good base so I could cancel/apply for cards in the future with lower impact. Here are the results:

Approved:
Capital One VentureOne (5k CL)
Chase Freedom Unlimited (6.7k CL)
Discover It Cashback Match (2k CL)
US Bank Cash+ (4k CL)
TJX Rewards (300 CL)
Target REDcard (300 CL)
Walmart (500 CL)

Declined:
BoA Cash Rewards
Chase Amazon Rewards
Amex Everyday
Barclay Uber Rewards
JCP

Currently, my scores with all three bureaus sit in the 680s, I have no baddies, my average age of credit history is at 8 months, utilization is at 4%, and I have 7 inquiries with EX and TU, and only 3 with EQ.

I would like to attain more cards to rack up even more rewards and further strengthen my base, but I am not sure how long to let these accounts age before I go at the cards I was denied for once again.

[Adkins]

I would wait a minimum of six months, but it would be better to wait a year. That's a lot of new accounts in three weeks, especially on a thin file. You need to let the accounts age, show responsible use, and bring up your average age of accounts. Barclay especially doesn't like a lot of recent HPs or new accounts. If you want approvals for the HPs you'll take, I'd wait a year before applying again. Come join us in the garden!

[Anonymous]

I would personally avoid store cards unless you're really loyal to place and having the card results in significant gains.

Also i don't know your spending ability or habits but having too many cards and spreading the rewards all over the place for sometimes not even a penny on the dollar more doesn't really worth the hassle imo. 

You have some great cards so far. And if you want to maximize your rewards and needs cards like the amazon card or premium cards down the road you need some strategy and patience not mindless app sprees. I'd say a 6 month period of gardening is warranted at this point. And figure out what you need and plan to apply just for it unless you want to go chasing subs and you're not really interested in the value of the cards.