After preparing the soil for your organic garden, the next step is to choose what plants you want to grow. Consider what you and your family prefer to eat, plus what grows well in your area.

In addition to what you’re going to grow, decide if you want to purchase plants or start your garden from seeds. If you start early enough in the season, you can use seeds. If not, you can purchase organic plants from your local nursery.

Regardless of what you choose, seeds or plants, make sure they’re grown without chemicals.

Next, you’ll want to plan and organize your garden. Did you know some plants naturally protect other plants from disease and pests? For example, marigolds keep bugs away and if you plant them around the perimeter of your garden, they’ll help protect your herbs, greens and veggies.

Mark where you’re going to plant them before transferring your plants into your garden. Make sure there is plenty of room between plants so they have room to grow and thrive. A tiny tomato plant can grow several feet high and several feet wide. Be sure to leave plenty of room for your beautiful, budding garden.