Square foot gardening has become a popular and efficient way to grow a variety of vegetables, herbs, and flowers in a limited space. If you’re wondering what to plant in a square foot garden, this guide will help you make the most of your garden bed with smart planting choices. Whether you have a small backyard, balcony, or patio, square foot gardening lets you maximize yield while minimizing effort.
In this article, you will learn:
– The best crops suited for square foot gardens
– How to plan your planting layout effectively
– Tips for crop rotation and companion planting
– Expert advice on soil, spacing, and maintenance
By the end, you’ll be ready to start your own productive square foot garden that fits your space and meets your growing goals.
What Is Square Foot Gardening and Why Choose It?
Square foot gardening (SFG) is a method developed by Mel Bartholomew that divides growing space into small, manageable sections—typically 1-foot by 1-foot squares. Each square is planted with a specific crop according to its size and growth habits. This system offers several benefits:
- Maximizes space by growing crops closely together.
- Reduces weed growth due to dense planting and mulching.
- Simplifies garden planning and maintenance with clear sections.
- Increases yield per square foot compared to traditional row gardening.
Understanding what to plant in each square helps you use this efficient system to its fullest potential.
Best Vegetables to Plant in a Square Foot Garden
When planning what to plant in a square foot garden, consider the size, growth rate, and compatibility of each crop. Here are some of the best vegetables for your SFG:
1. Leafy Greens
- Lettuce (4 per square): Fast-growing and perfect for dense planting.
- Spinach (9 per square): Thrives in cooler weather and fits nicely in small spaces.
- Kale (1 per square): Requires more space but grows tall, making good use of vertical space.
2. Root Vegetables
- Radishes (16 per square): Quick harvest and very space-efficient.
- Carrots (16 per square): Choose short varieties like ‘Thumbelina’ for better fit.
- Beets (9 per square): Dual-purpose for greens and roots.
3. Fruiting Vegetables
- Tomatoes (1 per square): Use determinate or dwarf varieties for square foot gardening. Stake or cage for support.
- Peppers (1 per square): Compact plants that produce well in small plots.
- Bush beans (9 per square): Produce abundant pods and don’t require poles.
4. Herbs
- Basil (4 per square): Great companion for tomatoes, repels pests.
- Parsley (4 per square): Easy to grow and useful in many dishes.
- Cilantro (4 per square): Prefers cooler weather and successive sowing.
How to Plan Your Square Foot Garden Planting Layout
Careful planning ensures each square foot is used efficiently without overcrowding. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Assess Your Space
Determine how many square feet you have available. Common SFG beds are 4×4 feet (16 squares).
Step 2: Choose Crops Based on Size and Growth
Refer to spacing guidelines:
– Small plants (e.g., radishes, carrots): 16 per square
– Medium plants (e.g., lettuce, spinach): 4 per square
– Large plants (e.g., tomatoes, peppers): 1 per square
Step 3: Rotate Crops Each Season
To maintain soil health, avoid planting the same plant family in the same square consecutively. Rotate leafy greens, fruiting vegetables, root crops, and legumes.
Step 4: Use Companion Planting to Boost Growth
Certain plants grow better together. For example:
– Tomatoes with basil to improve flavor and repel insects.
– Carrots and onions to deter pests.
Additional Tips for Successful Square Foot Gardening
Use Quality Soil Mix
Mel Bartholomew recommends a mix of 1/3 compost, 1/3 peat moss, and 1/3 vermiculite for optimal drainage and nutrients.
Water Consistently
Square foot gardens dry out faster due to small soil volume. Water deeply but regularly to keep plants healthy.
Mulch to Retain Moisture
Apply organic mulch like straw or shredded leaves to reduce evaporation and suppress weeds.
Provide Vertical Support
Use trellises or cages for vining plants like peas, cucumbers, and indeterminate tomatoes to save ground space.
Real-World Example: Successful Square Foot Garden Planting
Jane, a beginner gardener from Oregon, started a 4×4 square foot garden last spring. She planted:
– 4 squares of lettuce and spinach mixed for continuous harvest
– 2 squares of bush beans
– 1 square of cherry tomatoes with basil companions
– 1 square of radishes and carrots interplanted
– Remaining squares with herbs like parsley and cilantro
Within three months, Jane harvested fresh salads and herbs weekly, demonstrating the productivity and satisfaction of SFG.
Frequently Asked Questions About Square Foot Gardening
How Many Plants Can I Grow in One Square Foot?
It depends on plant size: small plants like radishes can have up to 16 per square, while large plants like tomatoes need one per square.
Can I Grow Fruit in a Square Foot Garden?
Yes! Strawberries, dwarf melons, and even compact berry bushes can fit with vertical support.
Is Square Foot Gardening Suitable for Beginners?
Absolutely. The clear structure and easy maintenance make it ideal for new gardeners.
Conclusion: Start Your Square Foot Garden Today
Choosing what to plant in a square foot garden is about balancing plant size, growth habits, and your personal preferences. By selecting the right vegetables, planning your layout carefully, and following expert tips, you can create a thriving, space-efficient garden that yields fresh produce all season.
Ready to get started? Grab your gardening tools, prepare your soil mix, and plant your first square foot! With a bit of effort and the right strategy, you’ll enjoy a bountiful harvest from even the smallest patch of earth.
Embrace the power of square foot gardening and transform your limited space into a lush, productive garden.
