Planning Step1

One of the most important steps is planning your garden. Putting some thought into it before hand, you can save yourself problems later.
Some things to think about might be:

• How much space do you have
• Do you have enough exposure to the sun
• How will you water
• What kind of trees are close
• Is there poor drainage
• etc..

There is an endless list of things, but most can be overcome. The more thought you put into it though, the more problems can be avoided.
Do you have a place picked out to start gardening, if so, great, If not look for a level, well drained & sunny area. If you have nut trees near by, you will have serious problems later. Walnut trees (as well as other types) put out a toxin that inhibits growth of other plants nearby.
How much space will you need? If a small space, don’t expect to grow rows of corn and other plants that require a large amount of space. Broccoli and Cauliflower for example, take up a large amount of space, for a smallish return.
If you live in an apartment, and have a sunny balcony, you can grow some of your own food. Consider building some grow boxes, as long as you care for the plants, you will be amazed at the results.
Consider growing vertically, I plant about 400 tomato plants each year in a 50ft. x 30ft. area with this method. You can also grow beans, cucumber, watermelon or any type of climbing vegetable in the same way. The idea is to give the plant a way to climb, therefore not taking up valuable garden space.
Using beds instead of single rows, you can get twice as much into the same space by planting this way.