What is Square Foot Gardening?
Square foot gardening is a system where you plant vegetables in a small, raised bed (typically 1.2m square or 4 feet by 4 feet) divided into sections (or squares) of 1 foot by 1 foot. Each square is planted with seeds or seedlings at a density appropriate for the plant's size, meaning you can fit 1, 2, 4, 9, or 16 plants per square. This compact approach maximises space, reduces the need for weeding, and makes gardening easier for beginners or anyone with limited space.
Pros of Square Foot Gardening:
- Productivity: Intensive planting means high yields from a small space, perfect for city gardens or small backyards.
- Space-efficient: Fits into small spaces and can be placed almost anywhere if it gets 5+ hours of sunlight.
- Low maintenance: This method is beginner-friendly, and the small size means you only need to spend a few minutes on planting, watering, and harvesting each day.
- Weed control: Dense plantings crowd out weeds, reducing the need for weeding.
- No-dig: Because you don’t walk on the soil, it remains loose and fertile without needing tilling.
- Great for beginners: Perfect for first-time gardeners or those with limited time to care for their plants.
Cons of Square Foot Gardening:
- Initial cost: Quality soil is essential for success. A mixture of 2/3 compost, 1/3 peat moss and vermiculite is recommended, which may come at a cost.
- Limited crop variety: The compact space isn’t suitable for large plants like pumpkins, zucchinis, or rhubarb. It’s best for quick-growing, smaller plants like lettuce, herbs, and root vegetables.
- Depth requirement: Your garden bed should be at least 30cm deep, with 50–60cm ideal for healthy root growth.
- Watering needs: Smaller, enclosed spaces require regular watering. Installing a soak hose or drip irrigation system can help during the warmer months.
- Maintenance: To get the most out of your garden, you’ll need to harvest and weed regularly. A few minutes every day or two will keep your garden in shape.
Square Foot Planting Guide
Here’s a guide to help you determine how many plants to place in each square of your garden bed:
1 Plant per Square
- Rosemary, Sage, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, Oregano, Cauliflower, Capsicum/Chilli, Cucumbers (Climbing), Eggplant, Tomatoes, Dill, Broccoli
2 Plants per Square
- Bok Choy, Fennel, Basil, Kale, Parsley, Calendula (Companion Plant), Celery, Potatoes, Silverbeet, Rainbow Beet, Thyme
4 Plants per Square
- Bush Beans, Climbing Beans, Garlic, Corn, Kohlrabi, Coriander, Peas, Leeks, Head Lettuce, Strawberries, Chives
9 Plants per Square
- Parsnips, Spinach, Turnips, Rocket, Onions, Ornamental/Leaf Lettuce, Marigolds (Companion Plant)
16 Plants per Square
- Radish, Carrots, Beetroot, Spring Onions
Tips for Success:
- Plan: Make your garden before planting to ensure the correct square-foot spacing.
- Soil Quality: Invest in good soil for the best results. A well-drained, nutrient-rich soil mix is crucial.
- Watering System: Consider installing a drip irrigation system for more consistent watering, especially during hot weather.
- Crop Rotation: Rotate your crops each season to maintain healthy soil and avoid nutrient depletion.
Square foot gardening is a smart, efficient way to grow your food, even in the smallest of spaces. Whether you’re a beginner or just looking for a low-maintenance gardening option, it’s a great way to get started with edible gardening. Happy planting!
