Calculate garden dimensions, plant capacity, and materials needed for your perfect garden
Proper garden sizing is essential for successful gardening. Whether you're planning a vegetable garden, flower bed, or mixed garden, understanding the space requirements helps you maximize productivity while ensuring plants have adequate room to grow. A well-planned garden considers plant spacing, pathway access, soil depth, and water requirements to create an optimal growing environment.
| Garden Type | Plants per Sq Ft | Typical Spacing | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vegetable Garden | 1 plant/sq ft | 12-18 inches | Tomatoes, peppers, squash, cucumbers |
| Flower Garden | 4 plants/sq ft | 6-12 inches | Annuals, perennials, ornamental displays |
| Mixed Garden | 2 plants/sq ft | 8-15 inches | Herbs, small vegetables, companion flowers |
| Raised Bed | 1-2 plants/sq ft | 10-16 inches | Intensive vegetable production |
Traditional method with plants in straight rows separated by pathways. Ideal for larger gardens and mechanical cultivation. Rows should be 2-3 feet apart for easy access. Works well for vegetables like corn, beans, and tomatoes.
Intensive planting method dividing garden into 1-foot squares. Maximizes space efficiency and reduces waste. Perfect for small spaces and raised beds. Each square holds 1, 4, 9, or 16 plants depending on plant size.
Plants arranged in blocks rather than rows, maximizing space and creating natural shade. Reduces water evaporation and weed growth. Excellent for leafy greens, herbs, and flowers. Allows for companion planting combinations.
Uses trellises, stakes, and supports to grow plants upward. Saves ground space and improves air circulation. Perfect for vining plants like cucumbers, peas, and pole beans. Can increase yield per square foot significantly.
Total Area: 10 × 8 = 80 square feet
Plant Capacity: 80 sq ft × 1 plant/sq ft = 80 vegetable plants
Soil Needed: 80 sq ft × 0.5 ft depth = 40 cubic feet (about 1.5 cubic yards)
Mulch Needed: 80 sq ft × 0.167 ft depth = 13.4 cubic feet (about 0.5 cubic yards)
Weekly Water: 80 sq ft × 0.623 = 49.8 gallons per week
This garden could accommodate approximately 20 tomato plants, 15 pepper plants, 10 cucumber plants, 15 lettuce plants, and 20 herb plants with proper spacing and companion planting.