So, little disclaimer: last year when we picked and planted our garden, we had zero idea what we were doing. But I guess beginner’s luck had our backs because there was certainly no shortage of produce filling our counters and refrigerator.

In fact, it’s because we had such a plentiful harvest that we decided to plant the same species of plants we did last year as we can tell those work with our climate and sun exposure.

We are adding vegetables to our variety this year as well as a cold frame. I’m incredibly hopeful that we can keep our good harvest luck going.

I can tell we have really expanded on our knowledge and drive as far as growing our own food goes because when laying out our new format, we talked about everything–from the position of the sun, elevation, quality of soil, etc.

When last year, it was quite frankly here’s some dirt, some rail road ties, and vegetables. Plant them all together and see what happens.

Oh, the simplicity of it all.

• Zucchini Squash- Heirloom Black Beauty
• Tomatoes- Arkansas Traveler Heirloom (indeterminate)
• Green Okra- Heirloom Clemson Spineless
• Yellow Squash- Crookneck Heirloom Squash
• Mild Jalepeno hot pepper
• Red Bell sweet pepper
• Cherry Tomatoes- supersweet 100 hybrid cherry tomato (indeterminate)
• Cabbage- stonehead hybrid
• Carrots- Danver’s Half Long
• Sweet Potatoes- Beauregard

Now for our cold frame, I plan to plant mostly salad greens that will be able to grow well into winter. That is one thing I really feel is missing from my winter diet–crunchy and fresh greens packed with micronutrients.

• Red Leaf Lettuce
• Green Leaf Lettuce
• Mustard Greens
• Spinach

We also plan to seed start in our cold frame if need be.

This year, I wanted to really elevate the flavor of my dishes with fresh herbs that I can pick 10 ft. away from my kitchen. So, in our back porch herb garden we plan to have:

• mint
• oregano
• thyme
• parsley
• basil

Here’s to hoping we have a bountiful harvest this year!

Along the way, I’ve learned a few tips that really work for our garden and a few tips we want to try.

For fertile soil, use horse manure instead of cow manure because it’s free of seeds. You can also add used coffee grounds!

Never water your garden in he brunt of the day–the water will actually “fry” the plants due to the harsh sun. Early morning or after sunset are some of the best times!

I also think it’s best to keep in mind that growing your own food involves a lot of trial and error. You will figure out along the way what works for you and your location and what doesn’t.