How to Decide What Vegetables You Want to Grow

Corn grows vertically, which makes it a good space-saver.

An abundant vegetable garden benefits the health, the palate and the budget. Though you may have visions of juicy ears of corn or large pumpkins, you must consider the location of your garden and its size when selecting seedlings. You will reap more satisfaction, to say nothing of produce, if you concentrate on vegetables that are predisposed to thrive in your garden.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure

1. Read the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Plant Hardiness Zone Map to determine the zone for your garden. Some states encompass many zones. Maryland, for example, includes zones 2a through 7b. Match your region on the map to the color-coded key to find your zone. Select plants that are indicated for your zone.

2. Measure your garden. If you have a limited amount of space, plant vegetables like corn, tomatoes and green beans that can be staked and grown vertically. Plants like squash and melons sprawl and are not suitable for small gardens.

3. Assess the amount of sunlight your garden receives. Most vegetables grow best in very sunny gardens. If your garden does not receive full sunlight for the majority of the day, select vegetables that are indicated for partial sun in your plant hardiness zone.

4. Consider your tastes. It is not a good use of your space to grow a vegetable that you do not like only because it will thrive.

References

• The United States National Arboretum: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map
• "Real Simple"; Simply Stated: How to Decide What to Grow in Your Vegetable Garden; Jessie Atchison; May 2010