Discussions

I'm getting started on getting my little patio garden up and going for the spring. I'm pretty inexperienced at the whole gardening thing, however I'm going to give it a good honest try this year!  
 
I've got oregano, cilantro, fennel, zucchini, and lettuce all planted in jiffy pots and small planters. To my surprise, it only took about four days for the lettuce to sprout it's way through.  
 
Do any of you avid gardeners have any suggestions for things I should try growing, or any general tips for fertilizing, etc, that I should keep in mind?  
 
My patio is not in direct sun, and is north facing. As I don't have any flower beds or anything of the sort, all things planted will have to grow in pots or planters.  
 
Thanks!