Where to start?

I am new so bear with me

I want to grow different kinds of veg. I have the vegetable and herb expert book but still wondering where to start with my canvas...

Shall I dig out everything till it is all soil and then buy young plants to make my plots?

 

First you need to clear the area in which you want to plant your veg.

Make sure the soil is double dug with big stones removed and soil improver.

This is an idea of the top 10 easy veg to grow:

Top 10 easy to grow vegetable plants and seeds for beginners

 

Thanks

Am I better off choosing the side that gets the most sun?

 

Yes, go for the sunnier side CoffeeKev but research what every herb needs...some prefer slightly shadier spot

You can buy herbs now however I would be inclined to do 2 things. Pot up your herbs. Thoroughly spend time digging and clearing your soil. Get some goodness in there. I would not rush this ....use the time now and the autumn to prepare your site. This patience and diligence will be worthwhile

 

I've chatted to a landscape gardener and asked about doing a raised bed which seems to be the easiest solution the way the soil and rocks are. I think with that too at least I know I can buy decent soil to put in too

I need a trip to local garden centre I think or nursery

 

Sounds good CoffeeKev

 

The soil is hard as hell full of stones and what looks like chunks of cement

I'm thinking of renting a rotovator and then just doing both soil beds then I have the full lot to play with

 

CoffeeKev, a rotovator is not really the best way to do this in my opinion.

Instead of trying to rush the job I would take my time and dig the soil over, slowly and surely. Does it matter if it takes some time to get it right? You will get rid of all the concrete, stones, etc. and end up with soil more easily worked. Then turn in some bulky organic matter to create a decent soil suitable for planting.

Digging is far, far superior to using a rotovator CoffeeKev

 

I am struggling getting a spade in. Shall I use a fork or soak the soil overnight?

 

No, dont soak. For me it made for muddy, messy work. A fork, a pick and hard work CoffeKev but do it slowly and thoroughly. I promise you, you will be glad you did it this way! It is also so satisfying! M Then use a spade and add compost for a glorious planting medium