Even if you have faithfully planted a backyard vegetable garden year after year, this year, it’s likely that you’re going to be hearing comparisons to Michelle Obama’s recently planted White House vegetable garden - “Oh, so you’ve planted a vegetable garden! Just like Michelle Obama’s.” Depending on your political leaning, you may or may not have to bite back a snappy retort (and feel free to use this one), “No, she planted a vegetable garden, just like mine!”

Vegetable gardens aren’t anything new, and you don’t have to be going through tough economic times to get your plot planted. You just have to like fresh vegetables, and the smell of freshly turned soil, and the feel of getting your fingers dirty, digging down deep and coming up with something wonderful. In most areas of the country, you’re coming upon the correct planting times that will ensure the best bounty, and a visit to your local garden center will help you determine what is plantable right now.

Some fruits and vegetables have relatively short growing seasons, so if you get your plants in the ground this weekend, you could be reaping what you sow in only a few short weeks. If you’re planning a 4th of July barbecue or a Labor Day soiree, make sure some garden fresh goodies (from your own garden) are on the menu.