Vegetable Garden Design
From Seed to Harvest

How big should my first vegetable garden be?

Start with 100–200 sq ft (10×10 or 10×20). This produces enough for fresh eating without overwhelming a beginner. Scale up in year 2 once you've learned your soil, pests, and season.

What vegetables are easiest to grow?

Tomatoes, zucchini, lettuce, radishes, beans, and herbs (basil, parsley). These are forgiving of beginner mistakes and produce abundantly in most climates.

Should I use raised beds or in-ground?

Raised beds are better for beginners: better drainage, easier weed control, warmer soil, no tilling, and you control the soil quality. In-ground is fine if your native soil is good and well-drained.

How much sun does a vegetable garden need?

6–8 hours of direct sun minimum for fruiting vegetables (tomatoes, peppers, squash). Leafy greens (lettuce, spinach, kale) tolerate 4–6 hours.

What is companion planting?

Planting complementary vegetables together: tomatoes with basil (pest control), beans with corn (nitrogen fixation), marigolds with everything (pest deterrent). Your Yardcast design includes companion planting pairings.

How much does it cost to start a vegetable garden?

Raised bed materials: $200–$600. Soil and compost: $100–$300. Seeds/transplants: $50–$150. Drip irrigation: $50–$150. Total first-year setup: $400–$1,200. Ongoing cost: $100–$300/year for seeds and amendments.