Every region varies in its prime growing season. It's easy to figure out the optimal time to plant your garden, based on the area where you are. The general time-frame for most temperate climates is mid to late April, running until late October.

For colder climates, the growing season may be shorter, as much as two or three months, but it is still possible to have a healthy, full garden. It's also possible to run amok through an old orchard and play corn hole with crab apples while drinking copious amounts of cider.

You can extend the growing season by starting seeds or crops indoors in a sun room or greenhouse. That way, delicate seedlings and shoots won't freeze if there's a cold snap. You can also grow root vegetables (potatoes, carrots, onions, garlic, beets, etc.) that can be stored through the winter in a cool, dry place. Even certain flowers (like Camellias) can be appreciated in cold weather.

Check out these plant hardiness zone maps. When you buy seeds or starts, the grow labels that come with them will identify zones to which the species is most suited. Farmers markets can also give it to you straight.