Each winter, seed and plant catalogs begin heading towards gardeners’ mailboxes. While they wait for spring, gardeners dream about lush gardens full of produce, decide on crops to plant and design garden layouts.  Somewhere in between dreaming and deciding, gardeners take into account their climate zone and their plants’ needs. Step One: Check the Farmer’s Almanac The first step to a bountiful garden is planting in the proper season. Vegetables can be sorted into two distinct categories: cool season and warm season. It is important to consult your county extension office for proper planting times for your region or zone. Many gardeners follow the Farmer’s Almanac to better acquaint themselves…