I do nearly all my training by using heart rate zones and time spent in the various zones. There is a lot of good information on the internet regarding how to establish your zones and what the effect the zones have on your training plan. Your are relatively new to cycling so take it slowly and develop an understanding of the zones and your body.
A couple things to be careful about as you get into zone training. First of all most people do not fit the 220 - your age to determine your maximum heart rate. You will need to establish what your maximum heart rate is or at least get a good estimate of your maximum heart rate. If your maximum HR is off by 4 or 5 beats per minute your zones will be off and the training effect will not be what your planned workout is. Another thing to be sure of is who's heart rate zones you will be using to establish your training plan. Joe Friel's HR zones are different than Dr. Kavornon's whereas the values for the zones overlap.
Good luck with your cycling.