Soil management practices can be designed to modify and correct deficiencies, but are useless if the cost is prohibitive. Most crops require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. Leafy greens can tolerate light shade. This is an example of light intensity. The duration of light is another consideration.
Day length determines flowering, bulb initiation, and maturation in certain crops.
This will affect sunlight, drainage, exposure to wind, frost pockets, and erosion. Garden rows or beds oriented east to west on a south facing gentle slope will warm up faster in the spring. Avoid low-lying areas where cold air collects. Exposure to high winds increases erosion and water stress. Access to water may include rights to wells, ponds, streams and irrigation ditch systems.