Layout Ideas for a Small Vegetable Garden
If you want to plant a vegetable garden, but don't have a lot of space to work with, try some of these layout ideas to help you get the most out of your small space. Since many people tend to plant small gardens in their backyard, it is important to learn how to best utilize the land contained in a very small plot. Fortunately, there are a variety of tried and tested layout methods for small gardens that have proved successful in the past. By following these guidelines, beginner gardeners can increase their chances of planting a successful plot of crops.
Tall Crops
There are a variety of crops that can grow quite tall when fully mature. While this on its own is not a problem, it becomes an issue when tall crops shield the sun from shorter crops. Tall crops such as peas and corn should be planted on the north side of your garden in order to prevent them from blocking valuable sunlight.
Medium-sized Crops
Medium sized crops do well when they are planted directly next to tall crops, leaving just enough space for sunlight to fall on them without issue. Plant crops such as cabbage, tomatoes and broccoli in the center of your garden. Space each crop as much as possible to allow for proper growth.
Small Crops
The biggest problem that small crops face is lack of sunlight, which can occur when they are blocked by larger crops. Because of this, small crops should always be planted as far to the south end of the garden as possible. Carrots, lettuce and radishes will do best when they are placed at the south end and allowed a great deal of sunlight.
Row Orientation
Rows should always run north to south rather than east to west. This will facilitate optimum sunlight and airflow. Otherwise, the rows may shade each other too much and inhibit crop growth.
