4 pro hints to grow a productive garden

When planning your garden, where you put it is as important as what you put in it. When considering where you will do your planting, there are several factors to keep in mind.

Vegetables, herbs and fruiting trees and vines all need a minimum of four hours of direct sunlight a day to produce good results. Take advantage of the sunniest and most open position for growing productive plants by siting the garden well away from overhanging trees and shrubs. This will also prevent competition underground for moisture and nutrients.

• Try not to expose your garden to prevailing winds. Strong winds weaken plants and dry out the soil surface.
• Wind exposure can devastate taller-growing vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, sweet corn and broad (fava) beans.
• Wind protection may take the form of a building, fence or wall on the windward side of the garden. Alternatively, a natural windbreak formed by a hedge of trees and shrubs may be effective.
• The protection should be far enough from the garden not to cast a shadow but close enough to reduce the wind's impact.
• In cool climates, a hedge of fruiting bushes, such as raspberries or blackcurrants, around the vegetable garden can make an attractive screen against the wind, and the hedge will provide high-vitamin fruits.
• In warm regions, a mixed herb hedge of rosemary, lemon balm and wormwood could look attractive as well as help keep the main garden from being too exposed.

Traditionally, vegetable gardens are located out of sight towards the rear of the garden. Some people say it's because these plants are less attractive but don't let convention dictate your garden location. If the the sun and wind protection are better at the side or front of the house, there's little reason for not locating the garden there.

Plant herbs and salad vegetables you will frequently use close to the kitchen door. If the cook needs an extra herb or a few more carrots, they can dash outside quickly — especially on cold or rainy evenings. Larger beds of less frequently harvested vegetables, such as potatoes, artichokes or rhubarb, can be positioned further from the kitchen door.

Having your own garden saves time and money but getting the most from it requires good planning and proper location. These suggestions will help you get a bumper crop every year.