Planning to start a backyard garden but need help figuring out where to start? Stay calm - there are a lot of steps, but they are pretty simple if you're starting small. Having a backyard garden can be very helpful as it allows you to have fresh produce from your very own yard. Plus, you might also have enough to share with friends and family. 

Follow these simple steps to start your garden. You'll be able to enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables from your backyard.

Location, Location, Location

Before you start planning your garden, it’s essential that you first determine where you want to place it. Having the right place for your garden will also determine its success.

Ideally, you should place your garden in a location with around 6 to 8 hours of sunlight. This will allow your plants to grow well. The best place for a garden is usually in the yard in an area that faces south. You can find a sunny spot by watching the sun - where does the site get sun in the morning? Is there any part that is shaded? If your yard has lots of sun and little foliage, you'll find the right spot quickly. You'll have more challenges finding a location if your property has many trees and the house shades the backyard. 

Find Easy Access to Water

Your new plants will require a lot of water to grow, and you should have a water source close by. If you can't find a nearby source, you might have to invest in a hose to bring in the water.

Getting water to your garden can be a chore if it's hard to do. A simple way to access it can make it easier to manage your water needs.

Dirt Makes a Difference

Good soil makes a huge difference when it comes to growing a garden. Good soil is light and loamy, and it should drain well. Although you can add organic matter and compost to improve the ground, planting in containers is usually better if the soil is poor. Creating raised beds or containers allows you to control the soil and ensure your plants have the best possible start.

Start Out Small

Starting small is essential, as a big garden can burn out too quickly. It's also better to start small and gradually grow your garden as you get more experience. Doing so will allow you to avoid getting overwhelmed by the various tasks involved in gardening.

You can decide whether to grow a more extensive garden next year or maintain the same size. The amount of time you commit to it will determine the size of your garden.

What to Grow

Once you have the basics - location, soil, water - it's time to consider what you'll grow! Although you can start planting right away, there are a few things you should consider first.

Make sure your plants are appropriately placed. Some plants require more room, while others only need a little space. Your seed packet should help you determine the appropriate amount of room for each plant. If you plan on a small-scale garden, consider whether you'll use a square-foot or row gardening style.

In addition to choosing the right plants, you'll also need to consider which ones will thrive in proximity to one another and which won't. This can make a huge difference in the success of your garden.

Reap What You Sow

After all of the hard work that you have put in, let's say your garden is thriving. Now is the time to take advantage of all that you have accomplished. Pick your vegetables as they ripen, encouraging the plant to produce more. 

Peas and beans will start to slow down if you leave them on the plant for too long. Some vegetables, such as zucchini and cucumber, will develop a flavor issue if left on the plant for too long. Pick your vegetables every day or every other day once they are ready to eat.

Getting started with a vegetable garden is as simple as picking the right spot and providing the necessary nutrients to ensure that it will grow. Are you planning on doing any backyard gardening this spring and summer? What are your favorite things to grow in the garden?