The first step in garden preparation is to have the soil tested to find out the soil pH and fertility level. Also, knowing the type of soil will aid in deciding what needs to be added to improve the soil condition. Vegetables do best in rich, sandy loam with a pH level of neutral-to-slightly acidic. The grass should be stripped away before rototilling, to avoid large clumps of sod that would be slow to break down in the garden. Compost, peat moss, and lime are easily incorporated into the soil while doing the rototilling. Work fertilizer into the top four-to-six inches of soil, then level the soil and rake smooth.

Choose disease and insect-resistant varieties of plants when they are available. Arrange crops so that taller plants do not shade shorter plants. Allow enough room for the plants to develop properly. Situate perennial fruits and vegetables so as not to interfere with future garden preparations. Make rows straight and parallel for easy cultivation during the growing season. If garden space is limited, choose compact varieties of vegetables, or use trellises to grow vegetables like beans and cucumbers vertically.

For further information, read online our care sheet on "Understanding Your Soil", and "Soil pH".

Revised: 03/10/98