by David Hebblethwaite

Created on: March 16, 2009

There are many reasons for starting your own vegetable garden. In these difficult times it could be that you want to save a few pounds. Then there is the satisfaction of knowing exactly where your next meal is coming from. Maybe you just like growing things, or perhaps you think the fresh air and exercise will do you good. Whatever the reason one thing is for sure, there's nothing better than that freshly harvested taste.

So now you have made up your mind to start your own vegetable garden you need to decide where to put it. Most of the plants will need plenty of light and warmth, so an open, sunny site is ideal. Make sure there is adequate shelter from the wind, plants such as peas and beans could be blown flat on a windy day.

The most important consideration for any plant is the soil, get that right and you're half way to success. Light, well drained soil is the most beneficial but not always available. Clay is made up of very small particles which bind together when wet. Drainage is poor and it will hold the water for a long time risking the loss of the crop. This makes it very heavy and sticky. As the surface dries it becomes hard and very difficult to dig.

If the soil is very sandy it will pose the opposite problem of not being able to hold enough water and plants will die of thirst. There is also a serious lack of nutrients in sandy soil making for weak plant growth.

The remedy for both types of soil is compost and lots of it. In clay soil it separates the particles, opening it up and improving drainage. Compost will add the nutrients, that your vegetables will need to thrive, to a sandy soil and hold it together, improving the water retention.

Compost can be made from any organic matter, plant or animal. Although it's best to avoid animal products and cooked food as these will attract rats. If you are at the beginning of your project you will probably have to get hold of compost from elsewhere. A compost heap should, however, be made as soon as possible, kitchen waste can be added straight away. Well rotted manure is excellent and can be collected free of charge from many stables. Look out for the roadside signs.

Place your heap out of the way and out of view, the sight and smell of rotting vegetation are not pleasant. Layering the organic matter with soil will help with the rotting process and keep the smell down. It's a good idea to construct some form of structure to house the heap. You don't want to have to chase your compost around the garden with your

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