There are many reasons why you may want to start growing your own vegetables. No matter what your reason, there are some very basic steps you must follow to ensure your garden will become exactly what you want it to be. These steps are actually really quite simple.

The very first step to growing your own vegetables is to determine what kind of vegetables you want to grow and whether or not you have the space in your garden for those vegetables, whether or not your soil will be right for your choice of vegetables, and determining when and how you begin the process of planting your vegetables.

The types of vegetables you should seriously consider should be ones that can be safely planted indoors during the winter months in planters then transplanted into the soil in the spring. Other vegetables work best with direct seeding; it is almost certain you will end up using both transplanting and direct seeding.

Some of the best vegetables for transplanting are broccoli, tomatos, cabbage, celery, onions, peppers, and cauliflower. Their root systems tolerate root disturbance well and definitely will give you a jump start on your garden.

If you do use planters for seeds indoors, you will have some freedom from the type of soil in your garden. The planters you use make it easier for you to control moisture, soil content, and temperature. These conditions are especially true for some of the smaller seeds that often have difficulty in germination.

It is best to avoid some root crops such as carrots, turnips or beets. Their root systems do not like to be disturbed or replanted. The benefit with these crops is their ability to be planted earlier in the season when it may be colder. Beans, peas and corn also fall into this category; however, you may get some mixed reviews on the benefit of indoor seeding and transplanting.

When you do take your planters outside or perform your direct seeding, make sure to strategically place your plants and seeds to help them flourish. Squash, watermelon, and cucumbers need room to spread. Tomatoes and beans should be placed where they can receive the benefits of watering and sunshine that help them ripen and grow.

There is no guarantee that you will be successful growing your own vegetables. If you do follow the tips and guidelines above you have a greater chance to harvest high quality vegetables.