If you have a particular area where you want to plant, the light and soil conditions will dictate a range of plant choices. If you are flexible as to where your garden will be placed, you can consider first what you wish to grow and then where those plants will grow best. Concentrating your first efforts close to the house, preferably in an area that you pass by daily, allows you to continually enjoy your creation. A word of caution, if you have small children, you may want to avoid planting flowers that attract bees close to play areas. Also, be aware that some plants have toxic properties.
Vegetables require at least six hours of direct sun each day.
Many traditional culinary herbs also are sun-loving and make excellent companion plants for your vegetables. Herbs also contribute to a healthy garden plot by repelling pests. Many herbs, such as basil, thyme, fennel, and dill, attract beneficial insects as well. A southern or western exposure is best for vegetable and herb gardens. A neatly tended vegetable garden may be placed anywhere, but if follow through is not your forte, you may want to tuck the garden toward the side or back of your house.