But before planting, the first step is to prepare the soil. Start by adding organic matter in the form of compost or manure, if it's available. The soil should be turned using a spade, garden fork or tiller. This will mix in the fertilizer and organic matter as well as loosen the soil and provide a well aerated seedbed for vegetable roots to grow. Rake the surface of the soil as level as possible and remove clumps or stones.
Pathways are an important part of the vegetable garden.
They are located so that the gardener has easy access to the vegetables for thinning, weeding, staking, harvesting or simply admiring. Vegetables are usually planted in rows for easy cultivation and record keeping. They also look good this way. Rows should be in a north-south direction to evenly distribute the sunlight to all of the plants in the row. Put stakes in the ground at each end and attach them with string to make sure the row is straight.