There are some crops that can withstand a dusting of light frost, while others cannot. Summer crops can only be planted once the chance of frost has dissipated. Crops such as tomatoes, cucumbers, basil, lavender, melons, and pumpkins can be planted only when the chance of frost is completely gone. Beets, cabbage, broccoli, parsley and spinach can withstand some frost and survive in the cooler months. The following preparations should be taken with the above seasonal crops.

Select a Site:
Select a garden site with well-drained soil, plenty of sunshine and a close water source. If the existing soil is heavy and poorly drained, you can add some peat moss to the mixture. Till the garden soil eight to 12 inches deep. Do not work the soil when it is wet-this may compact it into hard clumps.

Plant Quality:
It is a good idea to plant quality seeds. Select durable, green plants that show no signs of yellow leaves or are insect-ridden. Set out transplants of long-season vegetables as weather permits.

Water and Weed:
Water your vegetable plants to keep them growing. Weed you garden so that desirable plants do not compete with weeds for water, nutrients and sunlight. Spread a two-inch layer of grass clippings or other mulch to reduce weed competition and conserve moisture.

Harvest:
Pick your vegetables frequently so plants continue to produce throughout the season.