How to Plan the Perfect Garden Location: A Step-by-Step Guide

Starting your own garden is one of the most rewarding projects you can take on — but before you plant a single seed, it’s important to pick the right spot. Planning carefully now will save you time, money, and frustration later. Whether you're gardening here in the Berkshires or anywhere else, these tips will help you create a beautiful and productive space for the seasons ahead.

Let’s walk through what you need to know to choose the best garden location for a bountiful year.

1. Choose a Spot with 6 or More Hours of Sunlight Year-Round

Most vegetables need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily — and ideally, closer to 8 for best results. Observe your yard throughout the day and across seasons to see where the sun falls.
🌿 Tip: Leafy greens like lettuce and spinach can tolerate partial shade, but fruiting plants like tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers demand full sun.

2. Stay Close to a Water Source

Easy access to water is critical. Decide early:

Will you be watering by hose, setting up a drip line irrigation system, or collecting rainwater in barrels?

How far is the garden from the nearest spigot?
The easier it is to water, the more likely you’ll stay consistent — especially during the hot summer months.

3. Tie It Into Your Existing Landscape

Your garden should feel like a natural extension of your yard, not an afterthought.

Will you see the garden from a kitchen window or patio?

Are you aiming for a cottage garden feel, a sleek modern design, or something rustic and natural?
🌼 Choosing a style will help guide your plant selection, garden layout, and even your trellises and paths.

4. Leave Enough Space for Your Dream Garden

Sketch out your ideal garden shape and size — even if you start small.
Think about:

How many beds or rows you want?

Room for walkways?

Future expansion plans Starting with just two small garden boxes is a great beginning. If you have more room, four boxes can provide an impressive variety without feeling overwhelming.

5. Map Your Site Before You Dig

Take a few minutes to map out your site:

Mark where the sun hits throughout the day.

Note existing trees, fences, and slopes.

Sketch out your bed layout on paper.

Measure distances to your water source This simple step will prevent costly mistakes and make planting day much smoother.

6. Keep It Convenient — Close to Your Kitchen

Fresh herbs and vegetables are best when picked at the peak of ripeness.
Locate your garden as close to your kitchen as possible so you can easily pop outside for basil, lettuce, or a handful of tomatoes while cooking dinner.

Getting Started: From Dream to Dirt

Finding the right layout can feel exciting — and a little intimidating — but remember: small gardens can produce big results.
Even a tiny 4' x 8' raised bed can yield:

Tomatoes, Peppers, Cucumbers, Radishes, Herbs...and more!

Whether you build two raised beds this year or create a full garden of four or more, the key is starting.

You'll not only enjoy savings on groceries, but you'll spend more time outdoors, create a beautiful focal point in your yard, and experience the unmatched joy of growing your own food.