When choosing a site for your garden, there are several key factors to keep in mind sunlight, terrain, drainage, and critters. For our garden, I primarily focused on sunlight and terrain, since we planned to use raised beds.
Sunlight is arguably the most important factor. A garden’s success depends heavily on how much direct sun it receives each day. Ideally, you want a location that gets at least 6 hours of full sunlight, preferably more. A south-facing garden is often best, especially in northern climates, because it maximizes exposure throughout the day.
For example, my dad originally set up his garden in a spot that had perfect sun exposure. But over time, the surrounding trees grew taller and began to cast shade. After a few seasons of disappointing harvests, we ended up cutting back and removing some of the trees to reclaim that sunlight. So, if possible, choose a spot that’s already open and free of tall obstacles.
Terrain plays a big role too, especially depending on the type of garden you’re planning. If you’re going with raised beds, flat ground is ideal. It keeps your beds level, helps water distribute evenly, and avoids low spots where water might collect. If you plan to till and plant directly into the soil, a slight slope can work, but be cautious. On steep slopes, water can run off too quickly, eroding the soil and washing away seeds before they have a chance to root.
Drainage ties directly into both soil type and terrain. Raised beds tend to offer better drainage, especially when filled with a well-balanced mix of loam, compost, and sandy soil. Heavy soil like with clay, on the other hand, doesn’t soak in water the best and can present a difficult time when it comes to watering the plants. You want water to soak in and spread not pool up in one spot. Whether you’re using raised beds or planting in the ground, aim for a level or gently sloped area to promote good water flow and avoid soggy patches.
And then there are the critters. All I can say is good luck! But seriously, there are a few defenses you can put in place. Fences, netting, and even wire mesh under your raised beds can help keep out chipmunks, moles, deer, birds, and other curious visitors. If fencing isn’t an option, you can also try deterrent sprays or plant natural repellents like marigolds, mint, or garlic around the perimeter. Choosing a site where it’s easy to add protective measures will save you a lot of frustration down the line.
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