Tips for new veg patch please

[DizzyPurple]

Hi. I have an area designated for a veg patch. It previously had evergreen trees growing there but we removed them so not sure what the soil quality is like. Is it likely to need lots of extra preparation? I have divided it into 4 smaller areas. Any ideas for easy things for a relative beginner please?

Also thinking of planting a fruit tree next to the patch, again any particular prep needed for that? Most likely apple but poss pear. My neighbour has a pear tree the other side of the fence so don't know if this is a good or bad place to put one for me?

Thanks for any advice.

Soil quality is likely to be poor if you had evergreens there before, especially leylandii. Have all the roots been taken out? You will need lots of soil improver - look out for local options like well rotted stable manure or mushroom compost.

Cover over bare earth with cardboard or dark plastic if you aren't going to plant it up immediately as there is about to be a weed explosion in the UK now the weather has turned.

Good to start with IMO are a) anything you actually like eating b) potatoes. Potatoes are good at smothering weeds and magical when you dig them up.

I'm not big on fruit trees but I'd go for something a bit less bog standard than an apple - a fig if you've got the shelter, or a quince.

That's helpful thanks. We are rather partial to apples though so might just stick to that plan! There is a limit to the number that can 'fall' off the tree next door!