square foot gardening for small spaces

Dreaming of fresh herbs and homegrown vegetables but living in a cramped apartment or tiny townhouse? You’re not alone! Limited space doesn’t have to mean limited gardening. Square foot gardening is a revolutionary method that allows you to grow an impressive amount of food in surprisingly small areas. This technique, popularized by Mel Bartholomew, is perfect for urban dwellers, beginners, and anyone looking to maximize their gardening yields with minimal effort. Let’s dive into the world of square foot gardening and discover how you can transform your small space into a flourishing garden oasis.

What is Square Foot Gardening?

At its core, square foot gardening is a simple and logical approach to gardening. Instead of traditional rows, you divide your garden bed into a grid of one-foot squares. Each square becomes its own little micro-garden, with a specific number of plants suited to its area. The typical raised bed is 4ft x 4ft but it can be customised as needed for specific locations. For example 2ft by 4ft is perfect on a balcony. This method takes the guesswork out of planting and ensures you’re making the most of every inch of your garden.

The magic of square foot gardening also lies in its soil mix. Instead of using regular garden soil (which can be heavy and nutrient-poor), you create a custom blend known as “Mel’s Mix”. This is typically comprised of equal parts compost, peat moss (or coconut coir as a sustainable alternative), and vermiculite. This creates an airy, nutrient-rich medium that promotes healthy plant growth, excellent drainage, and minimizes the need for weeding and digging, making your gardening time much more enjoyable.

Why Choose Square Foot Gardening for Small Spaces?

There are many reasons why square foot gardening is ideal for those with limited outdoor space:

Space Efficiency

The grid system is designed to make the most of every square foot. You’re not wasting space on paths between rows, so you can pack in more plants into a smaller area compared to traditional gardening. It’s perfect for balconies, patios, decks, and even small backyards.

Easy to Manage

With its organized structure, a square foot garden is far less overwhelming than traditional gardening plots. You can easily manage the plants, water each square precisely, and quickly identify any pest problems. This is extremely helpful for beginners or those who prefer a more hands-on, intimate gardening experience.

Reduced Weeding and Digging

Mel’s Mix is a weed-free growing medium which significantly reduces or even eliminates the need for weeding. The loose and airy nature of the mix means you won’t need to dig or till the soil each season either. This means more time spent enjoying your garden and less time on labor intensive gardening chores. This can be very useful for the less abled.

Customizable

Square foot gardens are adaptable to any space and any need. You can easily adjust the size and shape of your garden bed to fit your area. You can also choose the specific plants based on what you like to eat and what grows best in your region.

Water Conservation

Because you’re targeting specific areas to water, you end up using less water compared to traditional gardens. This is not only good for the environment but also saves money on your water bill. Additionally raised beds drain very well which means that waterlogged roots are far less of an issue.

Perfect for Beginners

The simplicity of the square foot gardening method makes it perfect for beginners. There are no complicated techniques to learn or specialized equipment required. With a grid and a custom soil mix, you’re already set for a successful garden.

Setting Up Your Square Foot Garden

Here’s a step-by-step guide to setting up your square foot garden:

1. Choose Your Location

Select a spot that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. If you have less sun choose plants that are suitable for partial shade. Ensure the location is easily accessible, and where you can easily bring water and maintain the garden. If using a balcony you must take into consideration how heavy a raised bed can become when filled with wet soil.

2. Build Your Raised Bed

You can use a variety of materials to build your raised bed, such as untreated lumber, reclaimed wood, or even repurposed containers. A common size is 4ft x 4ft but adjust based on your space and needs. Aim for a bed that’s at least 6 inches deep. The depth should allow sufficient room for root growth. If growing root vegetables make sure it is deep enough.

3. Create the Grid

Use string, wooden strips, or even plastic dividers to create a grid over your raised bed. Each square should be 1 foot by 1 foot. This grid will be the foundation for your square foot garden. You can find ready made grids online or at many garden centres if you do not want to make your own.

4. Prepare Mel’s Mix

Combine equal parts of compost, peat moss (or coconut coir), and vermiculite in a large container or directly in the raised bed. Mix thoroughly. It’s best to get a high quality compost to start your garden off with a strong foundation. You can make compost yourself or use your council’s compostable waste. It is also possible to use a ready made soil mix to reduce the initial setup work.

5. Planting

Now comes the fun part! Follow the guidelines below to determine how many plants to put in each square.

• Large Plants (like Broccoli or Tomatoes): 1 plant per square.
• Medium Plants (like Lettuce or Herbs): 4 plants per square.
• Small Plants (like Carrots or Radishes): 9 or 16 plants per square.

When planting ensure the plants are evenly distributed across the square.

6. Water and Maintain

Water your garden regularly, especially during dry periods. The soil should feel moist to the touch. Be careful not to overwater. Check the squares regularly for pests, and remove any weeds that might pop up. You can also add a liquid feed once a week or every two weeks to give your plants a boost. There are many organic liquid feeds available which are perfect for the garden.

Choosing Plants for Your Square Foot Garden

The beauty of square foot gardening is that you can grow almost anything! Here are some recommendations based on plant size:

Large Plants (1 per square foot)

• Tomatoes: Choose determinate or compact varieties. A link to the Royal Horticultural Society information about growing tomatoes.
• Peppers: Bell peppers, chili peppers, and other varieties work well.
• Eggplants: Compact varieties are best.
• Broccoli: Harvest the main head, and smaller side shoots will keep producing.
• Cauliflower: Look for compact varieties.

Medium Plants (4 per square foot)

• Lettuce: Loose leaf varieties are great for cut-and-come-again harvests. Check out this article on growing lettuce.
• Spinach: Plant densely for small leaves and regular harvests.
• Basil: Bush basil varieties are perfect for square foot gardening.
• Chives: Easy to grow and a great addition to any dish.
• Parsley: Both curly and flat-leaf types work well.
• Swiss Chard: Colourful and nutritious.

Small Plants (9-16 per square foot)

• Carrots: Choose shorter varieties for container gardening. Here is some helpful advice on growing carrots.
• Radishes: Quick to mature and easy to grow.
• Garlic: Plant individual cloves for a harvest in a few months.
• Onions: Choose sets or smaller varieties.

Tips for Success

While square foot gardening is generally low-maintenance, here are some tips to ensure your success:

• Start Small: Begin with one or two raised beds, especially if you’re new to gardening. As you gain experience you can expand your garden.
• Use Quality Soil: Mel’s mix is the key to success. Don’t skimp on quality compost or try to use regular garden soil.
• Rotate Crops: Don’t plant the same plants in the same squares year after year. Crop rotation helps prevent pest and disease problems.
• Companion Planting: Research what plants grow well together. This can help repel pests and maximize growth.
• Water Consistently: Don’t let the soil dry out completely. Regular watering is essential, especially during warmer weather.
• Harvest Regularly: Don’t wait too long to harvest your vegetables. Regular harvesting encourages continued growth.
• Mulch: Adding a thin layer of mulch can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Creative Ideas for Square Foot Gardening in Small Spaces

Square foot gardening is all about creativity. Here are some ideas to help you make the most of your limited space:

Vertical Gardening

Incorporate vertical structures such as trellises or wall planters. This is perfect for climbing plants like peas, beans, or cucumbers. A vertical structure also adds another layer to the garden, which is good for visual appeal and maximizes limited space. You can purchase a vertical planter from a garden centre or build your own.

Container Gardening

If you don’t have space for raised beds, use containers! Large pots, buckets, or even repurposed bins can work perfectly. Just remember to provide good drainage. Group containers together to create a concentrated area of plants. It is also possible to move containers when needed allowing for more flexibility.

Balcony Gardens

Transform your balcony into a green oasis with hanging baskets, wall planters, and small raised beds. Choose plants that are suited to balcony conditions which can be exposed to wind. A balcony garden is a great way to reconnect with nature in a city environment.

Herb Gardens

Create a dedicated herb garden near your kitchen. This is incredibly practical for daily use. Herbs are also great for beginner gardeners because they require less effort and can grow in a wide range of conditions. You can use smaller containers or grow them together in a dedicated area.

Enjoying the Fruits (and Vegetables) of Your Labor

Square foot gardening is more than just a way to grow food; it’s a way to connect with nature, reduce your carbon footprint, and enjoy fresh, healthy produce. It’s a simple yet powerful method that can transform even the smallest space into a thriving garden. With a little planning and effort, you can enjoy homegrown vegetables, herbs, and flowers no matter where you live. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to start planning your square foot garden and enjoy the rewards of your labour. Happy gardening!

By implementing these strategies, you’ll not only be maximizing your limited space but also create a thriving garden with a variety of produce.