Choosing What to Plant and Understanding Spacing

Key takeaways regarding plant selection, spacing, and garden layout:

• Planting Containers: Plants are commonly available in six-packs or four-inch pots. Six-packs are less expensive, often costing the same as a single four-inch pot, and may adapt better to local soil and climate. While four-inch pots are larger and further along in growth, they are more expensive.

• Spacing Guidelines: Proper spacing should be determined by a plant's size at maturity.

  • Root Vegetables: Beets should be spaced approximately three inches apart, while carrots need about one to two inches.

  • Large Plants: Tomatoes require approximately 18 inches of space.

  • General Rule: If unsure, give large plants at least one foot of spacing.

• Garden Layout and Placement:

  • Climbing Plants: Vining plants like cucumbers and pole beans should be placed in the back of the garden near a fence or trellis to save space and prevent them from bushing along the ground.

  • High-Use Herbs and Vegetables: Items used daily, such as cilantro and green onions, should be planted closest to the kitchen for easy access.

  • Sunlight Management: Taller plants should be placed in the back, with smaller, low-growing plants in the front to ensure everything receives adequate sunlight.

• Interplanting Benefits: Planting different species together is often more successful than planting several of the same type in one spot. Different plants utilize different nutrients - such as nitrogen or potassium - which allows them to thrive together rather than competing for the same resources. Small plants like lettuce or radishes can be planted in the open spaces around larger, vining plants.