Fresh, crisp vegetables make every salad taste better. This summer, try planting your own veggie garden no matter where you live. Then you can reap the benefits of having a new hobby, boosting your health and saving money.

To get started, you’ll need the following supplies:

1. Growing containers: Washed out yogurt containers or egg cartons work well. Poke holes at the bottom to allow for drainage.

2. Trays: Catch excess water by placing these below the planting containers.

3. Soil: Find seed starting mix at your local gardening store.

4. Seeds: Try some easy to grow seeds, such as lettuce, broccoli, cherry tomatoes or peppers. Or try herbs, such as cilantro or basil.

Next, find a place in your apartment or home by south or west facing windows where plants will receive 12 to 16 hours of natural sunlight each day. Or, buy a fluorescent glow lamp if sunlight is limited.

Plant seedlings and water them until they are damp, but not soaked. Store in a warm environment.

Once three or four leaves begin to emerge, transplant your plants to a larger container or outside garden.

To learn which plants grow best in your area, visit the National Gardening Association’s website: garden.org/zipzone.