The concept of square foot gardening was developed to get the most food possible out of a small space.
The general setup is in a 4’x4’ raised garden bed. However, the concept can be used in larger beds, planters and in-ground gardens just as well.
Whatever the size of your garden, create a grid of 1’x1’ squares over the entire space. This can be done with a more permanent grid using wood and laying it over the soil, or with a few nails and twine marking out the sections. You can even simply measure and form indents in the soil to show the outline of the squares.
Once you know how many squares you have to work with, you can easily follow the guide below to see how many plants you will need for your garden. Each vegetable will show how many of that item should be planted in each 1’x1’ square. This will allow for adequate spacing between plants and ensures you utilize your garden to its fullest potential.
Not all plants get along. Some compete with one another for nutrients, or attract harmful pests that can be detrimental to certain plant neighbours.
On the other hand, some special pairings do exactly the opposite: they bring out the very best in each other and create the perfect healthy balance.
The guide below will help ensure you plant friendly varieties close to each other to allow for optimal growth.
Along with other vegetables, mixing in flowers into the garden can benefit the growth of the plants by attracting pollinators and deterring pests. Check out varieties of companion flowers for vegetables and herbs to add to your garden.
