Are you ready to start your square foot garden but not sure where to begin? Look no further, because we have all the tips and tricks you need to get started.
Companion Planting
One important aspect of square foot gardening is companion planting. This is the practice of planting certain types of plants together in order to help each other grow. For example, plants that attract beneficial insects can be planted next to plants that are prone to pests. Some plants also have beneficial root systems that can help other plants in the same bed.
It’s important to do your research before planting to make sure you choose the right combinations of plants. Some great plant pairings include:
- Tomatoes and basil
- Carrots and onions
- Beans and corn
Spacing
Another key aspect of square foot gardening is proper spacing. In traditional row gardening, plants are spaced out in long rows with wide walkways in between. This can lead to wasted space and a less efficient use of resources. In square foot gardening, each square foot of the garden is planted with a specific number of plants depending on their size.
Here’s a handy guide for how many plants to plant per square foot:
| Plant type | Number per square foot |
|---|---|
| Lettuce | 4 |
| Radishes | 16 |
| Carrots | 16 |
| Tomatoes | 1 |
| Cucumbers | 2 |
| Squash | 1 |
Soil
The soil in your square foot garden is also important to consider. When creating your garden bed, you should use a mix of high-quality soil, compost, and other organic materials. This will provide the necessary nutrients for your plants to thrive.
One common mistake that people make is using soil that is too heavy or compacted. This can lead to poor drainage and a lack of oxygen for the roots. To prevent this, make sure to mix in plenty of organic matter and use a light, fluffy soil mix.
Watering
Finally, it’s important to make sure you are watering your square foot garden properly. Generally, it’s better to water deeply and infrequently rather than giving your plants a little bit of water every day.
You should also make sure to water your plants at the base rather than showering them from above. This helps prevent fungal issues and ensures that the water is getting to the roots where it’s needed.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to a successful square foot garden in no time. Happy planting!
