Plant Spacing Calculator
Maximize your garden's potential! Calculate exactly how many plants fit in your garden bed based on recommended spacing. Perfect for vegetables, flowers, herbs, and square foot gardening.
Square Foot Gardening Plant Spacing Chart
In square foot gardening, each 12" × 12" square can hold a specific number of plants based on their spacing requirements:
| Spacing | Plants per Square | Example Plants |
|---|---|---|
| 3 inches | 16 plants | Carrots, Radishes, Green Onions |
| 4 inches | 9 plants | Beets, Spinach, Leaf Lettuce |
| 6 inches | 4 plants | Swiss Chard, Parsley, Head Lettuce |
| 9 inches | 2 plants | Bush Beans, Kohlrabi |
| 12 inches | 1 plant | Peppers, Broccoli, Cauliflower |
| 18 inches | 1 plant (needs 2 squares) | Determinate Tomatoes, Eggplant |
| 24 inches | 1 plant (needs 4 squares) | Indeterminate Tomatoes, Cucumbers |
Plant Spacing Tips
Don't Overcrowd
Proper spacing ensures good air circulation, reduces disease, and allows each plant to get enough sunlight and nutrients.
Try Triangular Spacing
Offset rows in a triangular pattern can fit 15% more plants than traditional grid spacing while maintaining proper distances.
Consider Vertical Growing
Vining plants like cucumbers, beans, and tomatoes can be grown vertically to save space and fit more plants.
Succession Planting
Fast-maturing crops can be replanted multiple times per season. Plan for harvests and replanting to maximize yield.
Understanding Plant Spacing
Proper plant spacing is crucial for a productive garden. When plants are too close together, they compete for sunlight, water, and nutrients, resulting in smaller yields and increased disease problems. When spaced too far apart, you're not maximizing your garden's potential. Our plant spacing calculator helps you find the perfect balance.
Grid vs. Row vs. Triangular Spacing
- Grid/Square Foot: Plants arranged in a uniform grid pattern. Easy to plan and maintain. Best for raised beds and intensive gardening.
- Traditional Rows: Plants in straight rows with wider paths between. Better for large gardens and allows for cultivation equipment.
- Triangular/Offset: Plants offset in alternating rows. Fits approximately 15% more plants than grid spacing while maintaining proper distance between plants.
Factors That Affect Spacing
While seed packets provide general recommendations, consider these factors when planning your spacing:
- Variety Size: Dwarf varieties need less space than full-sized plants
- Growing Conditions: Rich soil and consistent watering may allow slightly closer spacing
- Support Structures: Trellised plants can often be planted closer together
- Air Circulation: Humid climates may need wider spacing to prevent disease
- Harvest Access: Leave room to reach plants without stepping on soil