Planning Your Garden

When planning your garden consider the following points.

Sunlight – It seems obvious that all vegetable plants need light, don't choose your location according to appearance, choose it according to what your plants will need. The best and most efficient source of light is the sun. The sun also warms the air and the soil. Choose a site that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. More sunlight is even better. Prune or take out trees that hinder the sunlight from hitting the garden.

Soil type – Is the soil good for gardening? You can improve the soil by adding organic matter, lime and nutrients. Select a garden site with soil that is well-drained and rich in organic matter.

Water – Water is a must for plants. It is especially important at transplanting time or when a plant is making fruit. Locate your garden near a water source.

Convenience – Plant your garden at a site that is convenient to you. A garden that takes time to get to usually doesn’t succeed. The need for weeding, watering, pest control and harvest means frequent visits to the garden.

Garden size – How large of a garden do you want? Consider the site, your family size and your appetite for gardening when you plan your garden.

Variety selection – Select varieties that are known to grow well in your area. Choose those that fit the growing season; check the days to maturity on the seed packet. Consider the varieties’ resistance to common plant diseases listed on the seed packet.