How to Grow a Backyard Vegetable Garden: Planning to Harvest

Two critical questions: what to plant, where to plant it. Answer these, and you've cleared a major hurdle.

Research First

• Which vegetables grow easily in your area?
• Which combine well (no mutual inhibition)?
• When to plant each?

Site Selection

Sunniest, brightest spot—minimum 6 hours direct sun. Shade = relaxation zone. No yard space? Container garden.

Plant Selection for Beginners

Buy fewer seeds than average—avoid overcrowding. Choose easy, locally adapted varieties your family enjoys. Consult nursery, garden store, or online.

Seasonal Planting Guide

• Spring: Radishes, rhubarb, lettuce, asparagus
• Summer: Sweet corn, tomatoes, beans, peas, cauliflower
• Winter (basement): Potatoes, carrots, squash

Soil Preparation

Remove weeds, rocks. Mix in generous organic humus, compost, peat moss, rotted manure. Water, wait 24 hours, plant.

Garden Layout

Mid-garden: medium plants (tomatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, squash, pumpkins). Southern end: low growers (carrots, lettuce, onions, radishes). Follow seed packet spacing/timing.

Use these guidelines for a successful backyard vegetable garden.