Before you plant any vegetables, prepare your garden beds by digging the soil and adding organic compost at least 1-2 weeks before you start planting. Most vegetables only need 15-20 centimetres of good soil for their roots to grow. If you’re planning to grow crops with deeper roots, like potatoes or carrots, dig and compost deeper – up to 30 centimetres. Water in the compost and let it break down before you plant your vegetables. To get the most out of your vegetable garden, choose vegetables that you will use and plant them at the right time of year.