To calculate the total area of the vegetable garden, we need to break the shape into two simpler parts: a rectangle and a triangle.

1. Rectangle:

   • Length = 18 m
   • Width = 6 m
   • Area of rectangle = Length × Width = $18 \, \text{m} \times 6 \, \text{m} = 108 \, \text{m}^2$

2. Triangle:

   • Base = 6 m (width of the garden)
   • Height = 5 m
   • Area of triangle = $\frac{1}{2} \times \text{Base} \times \text{Height} = \frac{1}{2} \times 6 \, \text{m} \times 5 \, \text{m} = 15 \, \text{m}^2$

3. Total Area:

   • Total area of the vegetable garden = Area of rectangle + Area of triangle = $108 \, \text{m}^2 + 15 \, \text{m}^2 = 123 \, \text{m}^2$

So, the total area of the vegetable garden is $123 \, \text{m}^2$.

Would you like more details on any part of this calculation or have any other questions?

Here are some related questions you might find helpful:

1. How can the Basson family maximize the use of their garden space for planting?
2. What is the perimeter of the vegetable garden?
3. How much fencing would be required to enclose the garden?
4. What are the potential yields of onions and tomatoes per square meter?
5. How can the Basson family ensure optimal soil conditions for their garden?
6. What irrigation methods are best for a vegetable garden of this size?
7. How can the Basson family plan crop rotation to maintain soil fertility?
8. What are some pest control methods suitable for a vegetable garden?

Tip: When planning a garden, consider companion planting, which involves growing certain plants together to enhance growth and protect against pests.