Gardening on the Square
A Complete Guide to Square Foot Gardening
Isn’t it funny how most things cycle in and out and back in style? This “gardening on the square” isn’t a new concept at all. In fact, the phrase “square foot gardening” was first used by Mel Bartholomew in 1981 in a book he wrote for Rodale Institute, which was later made into a PBS series. Mr. Bartholomew was a retired engineer who was interested in creating a more efficient way of gardening. He devised this method by using raised beds, divided into one square foot spaces. This allowed for denser, more diverse plantings with minimal wasted space. He recommended a 4’ x 4’ raised bed, divided into 16 one-foot squares. The beds can be longer than 4’ but no more than 2’ across because that’s a comfortable reach for tending and harvesting. 8” – 12” is the recommended depth although you can have deeper beds for root crops.
The dividers can be as simple as twine fastened to the precise spots to form the grid, or wooden slats can be used to separate the sections. Depending on what you want to grow the grids can be planted with 1, 4, 9 or 16 plants per square. Example: a 1 might be a pepper, tomato plant or large herbs; 4 could be lettuce; up to 16 could be carrots or radishes. The taller plants should be on the north side of the bed to prevent shading the other plants. If it’s done correctly, the density of growth will shade out weeds and help hold moisture in the soil. Once a square foot is harvested another crop can take its place. Try to not use a plant variety in the same family, instead rotating crops. This is known a succession planting, or following one crop with another. Keeping the crops rotated with different varieties also helps keep disease and peats to a minimum.
There are several commercial varieties of raised bed soil available, or you can blend your own. Mr. Bartholomew had a mix he likes. It was made up of 1/3 coconut coir, 1/3 vermiculite, and 1/3 compost. You may have a particular recipe you like to use.
Another advantage of these small gardens is that it’s easier to provide protection from cold, harsh sun, and pests with frames and row covers. A simple frame can be erected in a matter of minutes, that can support any weight of protection you might need. The covers can easily be removed or added as needed.
Some disadvantages of square foot gardening start with the initial cost of building or purchasing the beds themselves, then the cost of the soil to fill them. If you have decent in-ground soil, try using that instead. This might not be an option if you’re physically challenged.
The beds can be cramped, especially when you’re growing larger or vining veggies. Again, in-ground plantings work best for these. Compact plants such as certain herbs, carrots, radishes and leafy greens are better choices for the grid.
Depth can be a problem. Some veggies require more root space then this method will allow. This can be a bigger problem if your beds are on pavement. Again, stick with plants that have shallower root systems.
A lot of watering will be needed. The combination of a restricted space along with a light mixture of soil, equates to extra watering required. The soil must be kept lightly moist. If it’s allowed to completely dry out it becomes very difficult to get it rehydrated. Drip irrigation and soaker hoses will help with the problem, but when the hot, baking sun of summer comes, it can be a challenge.
You’ll need to monitor frequently for weeds and remove them before they can get established. It’s much more disruptive to have to do it later. Also, close monitoring for pests and disease will be needed, especially during the hot and humid weather when the air is still.
Overall, square foot gardening is a good idea for people with very limited spaces, very poor soil options, or someone who needs access without getting down on the ground. The obstacles can be managed if one is observant and quick to act.
I say if this is your only method of growing your food, give it a go and enjoy the process as well as the produce.
BY Sherrie Ottinger
