Now that summer is here, it is a perfect time to start planning your backyard vegetable garden. Here are a few things to keep in mind before you get to work. Choose The Sunniest Spot Make sure to choose the sunniest spot available in order to get the best possible harvest. Start Off Small Starting with just one or two raised beds will make maintenance much easier and allow you to expand in the future. Soil Is Key The better your soil, the better your harvest. So make sure you have a healthy layer of topsoil to plant in. Soil can be improved by adding a layer of mulch, which also prevents weeds and helps retain moisture.