This is great news for the children’s future but what about your vegetable garden? The two most important primary considerations are site and size.
Once these have been sorted, the layout should be considered. Wheelbarrow access is essential, both around the plot itself as well as from trailer parking or a dumping site for manure deliveries or such. A compost bin should be provided near the garden and also have good barrow access.

For vegetable gardening the soil should be rich in composted organic matter and have good drainage. It should also be friable, that is easy to crumble but not too sandy. Most soils can be improved with regular additions of compost and manure. Manufactured soils available from your local landscape supplier also need to be improved.

Easy access to water for productive gardens is essential. Provide at least one tap in a convenient location for your garden.

Protection of your crop is an ongoing affair. Plant pests and diseases need to be monitored to prevent them getting out of hand. Research, advice and experience are the best tools you can use for this.

Protection from larger creatures such as wallabies, turkeys and domestic pets will need to be provided on larger blocks. A simple fence with dog wire and star pickets will suffice for most animals. Some vegetable gardens also provide protection from hail and larger birds in the form of a hail mesh cover.

Whether the beds are raised or in ground, the paths around them need to be considered. Paths made from grass, mulch, gravel or paving all have their pros and cons.

Finally, provide some form of storage for basic tools near you plot. The more convenient it is for you to grab a tool, the more likely you are to us it.

A well planned and laid out vegetable garden will be a joy to tend.