Choose your growing space
Raised bed, in-ground garden, or containers — start with the space and time you have. A small, manageable garden is a wonderful first garden.
New to gardening? Welcome.
Start where you are.
You do not need a perfect garden, fancy equipment, or years of experience. You just need a place to begin.
Pick a few vegetables
Choose vegetables your household enjoys eating. Start with a short list instead of trying to grow everything at once.
Check your timing
Planting dates depend on your local frost dates, soil temperature, and the needs of each crop. Use local university Extension guidance rather than relying on one calendar date for everyone.
Make a simple layout
Measure your space, leave room to reach your plants, and check mature spacing before planting.