plot advice

[elliza214]

hi everyone, Some people might know that i am new to this, and that I need to prepare my patch for next season. I have a plot 24 ft x 26ft and the soil has been covered over for the past 4 years with a weed fabric because it has been my childrens play area. The soil is quite pacted down and a very rich black and quite crumbly when handled. I am going to do a soil test over the next few days. I am thinking of making large wooden boxes to grow in "well hubby and my son will be making large wooden boxes" I am thinking of doing this because I have two lively dogs, also my plot is a little open so do I need to maybe erect a picket fence. Do you think I should grow in boxes or directly into the soil. What is the first thing I should do? thanks Elliza214

[craftsmaster]

Most people (you may or may not be one of them) start their hobby on a modest scale. They begin by dedicating an area of about 20 by 4 feet to the herbs. They break this area up into 12-inch by 18-inch plots, with each different herb assigned to its own special plot.

Just a quick hint -- and something to think about before you go shopping. Within this space, it's not unusual to see parsley and purple basil as border plants. These are placed in a spot that's handy to pick, and they're colorful so they add beauty to this spot in your yard.