While people in other parts of the country are still zipping up their warm weather gear, here in Las Vegas we are already welcoming spring and summer temperatures. The start of the frost-free growing season for our region is mid-February, so if you haven't already begun planting your vegetable garden, now is the perfect time.

The first step to successfully growing vegetables is planning out the soil bed. Most backyard gardeners utilize raised beds filled with a quality commercial potting soil that has organic material and the nutrients vegetables need to thrive in any climate condition. Raised beds should feature an irrigation system or be located close to a water source such as a hose for easy watering.

The Right Vegetables to Grow in Spring

Once you have the right set-up for your vegetables, it's time to start planting. The real fun begins in March, as Vegas usually starts seeing consistent daytime temperatures in the high 70s. Begin prepping your vegetable seeds indoors in small pots; seedlings and small vegetable sprouts can then be transferred to your outdoor garden a couple of weeks later.

Good examples of summer vegetables to plant in spring include: beans, corn, cucumbers, eggplant, gourds, squash & pumpkins, okra, peas, peppers, radishes, sweet potatoes, tomatoes and watermelon.

For more ideas on how to bring your backyard to life, check out these blog posts:

• Prep Your Patio for Spring
• Get More Use Out of Your Backyard with Exterior Shades
• 5 Ways to Add Enchanting Light to Your Backyard