This post contains affiliate links, which means I will make a commission at no extra cost to you should you click through and make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Wondering how to get started with square foot gardening? Check out these tips and best plants for square foot gardening.
What is square foot gardening?
Mel Bartholomew was experimenting in his garden on how to grow the highest yield of veggies out of the smallest amount of space available. He created the Square Foot Gardening concept which is now widely used as one of the absolute best ways to garden. The trick is in the soil. When it has the right organic matter added to it, it makes it super enriched, which makes the plants thrive.
All New Square Foot Gardening, Second Edition: The Revolutionary Way to Grow More In Less Space $14
Tips for square foot gardening beginners
Gardening is a wondrous blend of art and science, combining the creative thrill of coaxing life from the earth with the meticulous calculation of sunlight, soil, and water. For beginners especially, the vast information and methods can seem overwhelming. But worry not, fellow green-thumbs in training! Square Foot Gardening (SFG) could be your golden ticket to a fruitful first harvest and a thriving garden, regardless of space constraints.
SFG is a simple yet thoroughly planned method for managing a vegetable garden in a compact space. It’s about dividing your garden into square-foot sections so that you can make the most out of every inch available. This method is especially attractive to urban dwellers, but it's a boon for anyone looking to garden in a more organized, productive, and less wasteful manner.
In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the essential steps to start your very own Square Foot Garden, plant selection, and tips to ensure a green and bountiful space.
The core philosophy of SFG revolves around the idea that a garden of any size can yield bountiful produce when optimally organized. By dividing the garden space into one-foot squares, you provide a structured area for each type of crop, ensuring you don't overcrowd and that everything has just the right amount of space to grow.
The Advantages of SFG
Compared to traditional row gardening, SFG offers several benefits:
Saves space by using less land
Reduces the need to walk on soil, which can compact and damage it
Minimizes resource waste, such as water and fertilizers
Makes it easy to manage garden chores without the need for extensive tools or equipment
Tips for the Soil for Square Foot Gardening
The key to successful square foot gardening is definitely in the soil. Into your starting organic potting soil add in blood meal, bone meal, and earthworm castings plus organic compost. You can also add in fish emulsion and bat guano as well. Mix it all together really well before you create your planting beds. As your plants grow, side dress them with this mixture.
Earthworm Castings, 30 lbs $20
Preparing Your SFG Plot
To start your Square Foot Garden, you'll need to:
Choose a sunny spot. Most vegetables need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Build or prepare your square foot garden boxes or beds. Boxes should be no larger than 4 feet across to ensure you can reach into the center from either side.
Tips for the Size and Planting Area
One thing that Mel Bartholomew realized was the amount of wasted time and energy that occurs when growing in rows. It wastes a lot of space and you typically need to invest in machinery to clear and harvest the space. Instead, create 4x4 foot planter boxes. This size is perfect so you reach into the square instead of stepping on the soil or harming the plants.
The most common material used to build a square foot garden is untreated wood. They can also be created out of cinder blocks or bricks. Make sure that you create it to be at least 8-10 inches deep so you can grow root vegetables. Place a weed barrier down before you add the enriched potting soil.
Pick up some garden string and make a grid on top of the planter box. The grid lines should be 12 inches apart, making each square a perfect 12 inches.
Planting the Right Crops
The Best Plants for Square Foot Gardening
Some plants are better suited to the SFG method because they require less space and work well with other types of crops. These include:
Leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, and kale
Root vegetables such as carrots, radishes, and beets
Compact varieties of cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower
Herbs like basil, parsley, and oregano
Understanding Plant Spacing
Each square foot is used to its full potential in SFG, so it's critical to understand the spacing needs of your chosen plants. For instance, a single square foot is sufficient for growing 16 radishes, nine beets, or one tomato plant.
Companion Planting
To further maximize your space and abundance, consider companion planting. Pairing plants that benefit each other's growth, repel pests, or attract beneficial insects can lead to healthier crops. Some classic combinations include tomatoes with basil, and carrots with onions.
Best Plants for Square Foot Gardening
The key to the planting in a square foot garden is to know how many plants will fit into each square.
-
- Small: 16 plants per square - Carrots, looseleaf lettuce, radishes, spinach
- Medium: 9 plants per square - green beans, peas
- Large: 4 per square - Basil, cauliflower, broccoli, melons
- Extra Large: 1 per square - Tomatoes, Brussels Sprouts, cucumbers
Nurturing Your SFG
Soil Preparation
The soil in your SFG is the foundation of your garden, quite literally. It's crucial to start with a rich, well-draining mix to support healthy growth. A blend of vermiculite, peat moss, and either compost or a balanced organic fertilizer makes for an ideal SFG soil mix.
Watering
Overhead watering can lead to water waste and the spread of diseases. Instead, opt for a soaker hose or a drip irrigation system to deliver water directly to the plant's roots. Remember, the key is to provide consistent but measured moisture.
Weeding and Pest Control
The close nature of SFG makes it easier to weed than traditional gardens. Stay vigilant and remove any weeds as soon as they appear. The same goes for pests – the earlier you spot and address these issues, the better.
Seasonal Considerations
Planting Seasonally
Different plants thrive in different seasons. Start by consulting your local planting calendar to learn the best times to sow and harvest. You'll find that plants like lettuce and peas love the cool weather of spring and fall, while tomatoes and peppers flourish in the heat of summer.
Winterizing Your SFG
If you're in a climate with harsh winters, be sure to prepare your garden for the colder months. This could involve protecting plants with covers or bringing containers indoors.
SFG Harvest Guide
Knowing When to Harvest
Each plant has its own signs that it's ready to be picked. With experience, you'll learn to recognize these cues, but you can always consult gardening resources to know for sure.
Harvesting Techniques
It's vital to use the right approach to harvest each crop for the freshest and most robust produce. For example, cutting lettuce at the base of the head, gently pulling carrots from the soil, or pinching the stems of herbs.
Additional Tips for Success
Record Keeping
Keep a garden journal to track planting times, varieties used, and success rates. This will help you to refine your approach and plan future gardens with precision.
Fertilization
While SFG minimizes the need for fertilizers due to the concentrated growing space, some plants will benefit from additional nutrients as they grow. Only apply fertilizers when necessary and use natural compost where possible.
Continuous Learning
One of the joys of gardening is that it's an ongoing learning process. Take advantage of resources such as books, online forums, and local horticultural societies to keep growing your knowledge.
Conclusion
Square Foot Gardening is an excellent way for novices to dip their trowel into the earthy art of planting. It provides a structured approach to gardening that ensures you make the most out of your space and time. With its emphasis on organization and efficiency, SFG not only yields a colorful bounty but also teaches valuable lessons about planning and maintaining a productive garden. May these tips and guidelines lead you to a vibrant and rewarding gardening experience in every foot of your SFG plot.
Other articles you may find useful: