Decide what you want to grow, determine your budget, and create a list of the plants you want to include in your garden.

Consider the amount of space you have and create a rough sketch of your garden layout.

Be sure you have the right supplies: trowels, pruning shears, gloves, watering can, and soil amenders will all be important.

Research the plants that are suitable for your climate and soil type.

Take into account the amount of sunlight and shade in your garden area.

Purchase your seeds or seedlings in advance so you have everything you need when it’s time to start planting.

Determine which types of plants you want to grow, such as vegetables, fruits, or flowers.

If your soil is dry and sandy, organic matter can also improve this type of dirt; compost, mushroom soil, and/or decomposing leaves can help enrich the soil and make it more nutrient dense. 

Consider your climate, available sunlight, and soil type to ensure the plants will thrive in your area.

Determine the amount of space you have and choose plants that will fit accordingly. Don't forget to consider growth rate and the size of your plants to make sure they won't overcrowd each other as they mature.

Ensure that your plants are either resistant to local wildlife or can be easily protected with cages; young, tender plants are often appetizing to rabbits, deer, and other backyard visitors. 

Start by removing any weeds or debris from the garden area. Weeds can compete with your plants for nutrients and water, and debris can prevent healthy root growth.

Test the soil to determine its pH level and nutrient content. You can purchase a soil testing kit from a garden center or send a soil sample to a testing lab for analysis. Based on the results, you can adjust the pH level and add any necessary nutrients to the soil.

If your soil is quite dense and clay-like, consider mixing in organic matter like compost to lighten the soil, improve drainage, manage temperature, and add nutrients.

If your soil is dry and sandy, organic matter can also improve this type of dirt; compost, mushroom soil, and/or decomposing leaves can help enrich the soil and make it more nutrient-dense. 

Mix the organic matter into the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches, ensuring that it’s well incorporated into the soil. This will help improve soil structure and water retention, providing your plants with the best possible growing conditions.

Plant your seeds or seedlings at the right depth. Generally, seeds should be planted at a depth of three times their diameter, while seedlings should be planted at the same depth they were in their previous container.

Water your plants regularly, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Depending on the type of plant and weather conditions, this may involve watering every day or every few days.

Monitor your plants regularly for signs of stress or disease. This can include wilting, yellowing leaves, or insect damage. Address any problems as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your plants.

Fertilize your plants as needed, using a balanced fertilizer according to the instructions on the package.

Consider using mulch to help retain moisture in the soil and prevent weed growth.