It's easy to get carried away when looking through seed and plant catalogues, so make sure you grow only what you really like, keeping experiments to a minimum. Think about how much space you have: this will be the greatest limitation on what you can grow. Also think about how long things take to grow - cabbages, for instance, are slow to mature and take up precious space all season.
If space is at a premium, consider dwarf selections and bush forms. Many seed companies now sell 'patio' vegetables, which are suitable for even the smallest garden.
Our experts have put together a number of advice pages to help you get started in the vegetable garden.
Mulching vegetable gardens
Watering vegetables
Seed-sowing techniques
Soil preparation
Positioning vegetables
Planning a vegetable garden
Vegetable-growing basics
Watch our videos for help and advice on growing your own vegetables – including sowing techniques as well as individual profiles.
The RHS Advisory Service has produced an A-Z of vegetable profiles - including growing, storing and disease problems - for numerous vegetable crops.
