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If you're starting a garden from scratch you'll have the advantage of being able to clear cut the entire area and plan from the earth up. An undertaking like this should come with a checklist, so without further ado, here it is:

1) Get soil samples. A simple kit for testing soil samples can usually be bought at a hardware or home improvement store. If you can't find one locally try a Burpee catalog or order one from an on-line supplier.

What you want to know is whether your soil is acidic or base. The PH testing kit will come with instructions on how to find out. Then it's just a matter of working with what you have, or adding fertilizers to get what you want.

2) Once you've got your facts in order you can start churning up the soil and removing any roots, weeds or rocks that stand between you and your dream garden. Don't get lazy here. The earth is the foundation of your garden and you want it to be broken up for any new roots or seeds you'll be introducing.

3) While you're busting up hardened chunks of untouched ground you can think about the layout you're going to sketch later. This will be immensely helpful in keeping your planting options organized. For more inspiration look through landscaping books. Think of plants that appeal to you, place them with consideration to color, size and fragrance.

4) Add any paving stones, fences, trellis and sculptures you've got before you add the plants. This will make your life easier because you can kneel and step where ever you want as you make readjustments to placement.

5)Once your garden is ready to receive you can pick out some plants from catalogs. Don't order them yet. You'll want to check a local source first to see if they offer what you're looking for. Supporting your local growers is the best way to ensure you're getting something that thrives in your area. With any luck they'll share some advice on maintaining the health of your new plants. If they don't have all that you want then you turn to the catalogs and fill in the gaps.

6) Consider purchasing worms and lady bugs if you don't see a lot already. They'll churn the soil for you and keep a lot of parasites at bay. While you're at it look into other natural methods of pest control. Your garden is your link to nature. Keep it healthy in a natural way.

7) After you've got things planted you'll need to remember when they need watering. Different plants have different needs. Don't be afraid to make some notes and save the planting instructions or seed packets. As time goes by you'll get used to your watering and fertilizing schedules but it can be a bit much to remember all at once.

8) Finally, you can enjoy all of your hard work. Sit back and watch your garden grow.

Learn more about this author, E. Rae Fallesen.
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