A friend who has lived in apartment buildings almost all her life has finally secured herself a community garden plot. She asked for advice. I wrote out a long list, and figured others might find it useful, too.
The specific dates are aimed at Toronto, Ontario. ("Now" is late April.) But the general advice and plant recommendations apply for anyone in temperate climates. I've gardened in Ottawa, Vancouver, and Edmonton. That's Canadian zones 5a, 8a, and 3b.