Regarding your question about starting a vegetable garden in the spring, I think the most important step is getting the soil ready before you plant anything. I test the pH and mix in compost about two weeks before putting seeds or transplants in the ground. Tomatoes and peppers do especially well in raised beds since the soil stays warmer and drains better. For the layout, I keep taller crops on the north side so they do not shade the smaller ones. Adding a layer of mulch helps hold moisture and keeps weeds from sprouting. Watering early in the morning seems to reduce the chance of mold forming on the leaves. Rotating what you grow in each bed from year to year keeps the soil healthy and cuts down on pests. If you only have a small space, try growing a few things that produce a lot like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and bush beans. Starting seeds indoors about six weeks before the last frost date gives them a strong start. I use a basic grow light on a timer so the seedlings do not get too tall and weak.