why now is the perfect time to design, install, and plant your backyard vegetable garden

there’s just something magical about growing your own food—and if you’re anywhere in naperville, geneva, or the western suburbs of chicago, now is seriously the best time to get your backyard veggie garden going. whether you’re tucked into a cozy downers grove neighborhood or have more room to play with in plainfield, spring is all about planning, digging, and planting. when i design raised beds for my clients, i usually stick with a 4'x4' or 4'x8' size—big enough to grow a nice variety of herbs and veggies, but not so big it becomes overwhelming. pick a sunny spot (your veggies will thank you), and try to keep it close to your kitchen or grill so you can run out and grab something fresh while you’re cooking. it’s those little conveniences that make a garden super satisfying.

when it comes to materials, i’m a bit picky—and for good reason. they really do make a big difference, both in how your garden lasts and how it looks. a lot of folks in lisle and batavia are loving the look and feel of cedar—it’s naturally rot-resistant and totally safe for growing food (no pressure-treated stuff here). if you're into something a little more modern, black metallic containers are super sleek. i’ve also been building beds out of creamy white natural stone from wisconsin—it's got that timeless, organic feel i love. and honestly, corten steel containers might be my all-time favorite—they’re tough, beautiful, and develop this cool rusted patina over time. whatever your vibe is, i’ll help you pick something that fits right into your outdoor space.

and right now? it’s go time for cool-season veggies. i’m talking lettuce, bok choy, spinach, kale, swiss chard, broccoli, peas—you name it. these guys thrive in the chillier spring weather we’ve still got in wheaton, downers grove, and all around the western suburbs. getting them in the ground now means you’ll be harvesting before summer really kicks in. whether you're planning big family dinners from your garden or just want your kids to experience growing food with their own hands, now’s the moment. let’s get your veggie garden started and make it something you’re excited to step outside for every day.