Be sure that the plants you intend to use are suitable for your area & climate. If you have the choice between mail order and local plants of the same type, you might want to stay with plants proven in your local area.

You also might want to look into Permaculture (permanent agriculture). Bill Mollison has several good books out, which is aimed at the DownUnder/Oz crowd, but many of the facets fit very well up here in the temperate zones. Some people think you need acres to do permaculture, but if you can't do it on your lot, you probably couldn't do it with acreage. Start at your back door and work your way out.

Some websites that might provide some useful info:

ATTRA (National Sustainable Agriculture Information in the U.S.): http://www.attra.org/attra-pub/perma.html

Holistic Agriculture Library: http://soilandhealth.org/01aglibrary/01aglibwelcome.html

Forest Farm Plant Nursery: http://www.forestfarm.com/

Ever wondered what to do with human waste in a longer-term 'situation'? Joseph Jenkins has the answers for safe disposal. His book the Humanure Handbook is online, drawings and photos included: http://www.joseph-jenkins.com/online_pubs.html He's got more answers than you'll have questions.

Worm farm waste systems: http://www.wormfarm.com.au/

Sue