This diagram will allow nursery staff to analyze the available light on different parts of your property. Shopping for shade plants takes a bit more research, but the experts are there to help. Next, determine what kind of soil you have. Most plants prefer a relatively rich, loamy soil. If you're not sure what kind of soil you have, take a cup of it to the nursery with you.
New construction tends to leave very sandy and rocky ground close to the house.
Knowing this, the Beaudoins started their vegetable garden in the far corner of their property. Instead, they have built up the soil with organic additions each year. In the fall, they till in organic matter from the garden itself. In the spring they take a load of manure from the farmer down the street. These are good choices, according to Jeff O'Donal, who recommends that new gardeners pay more attention to the basic quality of their soil than the specific nutrients it contains.