Before planting

• First, choose a location for your vegetable garden. The area should receive full sun, as most seeds grow best in direct sunlight. Also, choose a location that has well-drained soil. If you are sowing seeds directly in soil outdoors, note that they may become rotted if left in standing water. Likewise, mature plants do not produce vegetables in soil that is excessively soggy.

• Next, sketch out a map of the vegetable garden. Take into consideration how many types of vegetables you will plant, and the quantity and mature size of each plant. Also take note of seed spacing requirements, which can usually be found on the back of seed packets. Many people make the mistake of sowing vegetable seeds too closely together.

• Finally, begin cultivating the plot of land. This is usually done in early spring, although it can also be done in the fall. Use a rototiller or a hand fork and spade. Then begin adding compost (about three weeks prior to planting seeds). You can also add mulch to help retain moisture and nutrients, limiting weed growth. Once completed, build a frame or fence around your vegetable garden to protect it.

Planting seeds

Each vegetable type has its own requirements when it comes to planting seeds. Here are some common things to look for:

• Indoor vs. outdoor seed sowing. Not all seeds can be sown outdoors directly. In fact, many seeds should first be planted indoors and then transplanted outdoors later. There are a number of reasons for this. Some seeds need the indoor warmth that chilly spring weather can't provide. Others need a controlled climate where they are given proper amounts of moisture and light.

• Depth of planting. Again, different types of seeds need to be planted at different depths. Range can vary from 3/8-inch to several inches, depending on vegetable type.

• Seed spacing refers to the amount of space between seeds. Most vegetable seed packets include instructions as to how far apart seeds should be planted. Remember, as well, to allow adequate room between vegetable plant rows for harvesting.

• Interplanting is based on the notion that some vegetables grow better next to one another than others. The typical example of this is the "three sisters," which include corn, beans, and squash. Beans contribute nitrogen to the soil, while the corn stalks serve as poles for the beans, and the leaves of the squash provide ground cover, prohibiting weed growth.
  
  Other combinations of vegetables that grow well side-by-side include beans and tomatoes, cabbage and beets, spinach and cauliflower, and carrots and peas. Plant seeds accordingly for success.

• Companion planting is somewhat similar to interplanting. Companion plants are plants or flowers which aide in keeping harmful insects away from vegetable plants. For example, nasturtium is an edible flower that lures flies away from vegetables. Onions and garlic can be planted next to strawberries and carrots, as they keep away harmful insects and flies.

Maintaining your vegetable garden

As long as you water plants, add mulch or compost as needed, and keep vegetables free of pests, your garden will be a success! Try to keep your vegetables free of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, as chemicals can affect the taste, nutritional value and overall health of vegetables.