How do I get the garden tub to prime so the jets will work?

Some thing may be blocking the intake area of your pump and stopping it from working correctly. Have you checked the pump itself?

I am guessing that something is blocking the intake to your pump. You will have to check that.

Hi Karen,

Have you cleaned out the jets? That could be your answer! Full of calcium......

Best wishes. Sometimes a Darning needle will help..........

Make sure there is water going to the pump or the pump is blocked or not working.

This is slightly off topic but this site explains how to prime a hot tub pump (don't know if this helps):

Step 1

Shut down the hot tub. Turn off the power at the wall. Look for a breaker box within a few yards of the hot tub if there isn't an apparent hot tub circuit in the home's principal circuit breaker set. Many codes require a switch near the hot tub. It will be in a weatherized box—usually gray.

Step 2

Take the handle off the massage selector that's supplied by the pump you need to prime. Many hot tubs have more than one pump. You can tell which one needs priming because that'll be the one that supplies the failed jets.

Step 3

Turn the massage selector's cap counter-clockwise a little. Listen for seeping air. You should hear it hiss.

Step 4

Turn the massage selector cap clockwise to tighten it when the hissing stops. Turn it finger tight. The hot tub pump is now primed. Turn on the hot tub and test. Repeat Steps 1 to 4 with any other problem jets.

Here's a troubleshooting guide:

https://www.healthyhottubs.co.uk/jets-not-working-on-hot-tub/

This article is helpful https://www.masterspaparts.com/faq/hot-tub-jets-not-working/