Roots
Carrots, radishes, beets, and onions can be efficient in blocks.
Garden spacing chart
Garden spacing chart for raised beds
Spacing is the fastest way to turn a vague garden idea into a realistic plan. Use the chart as a starting point, then adjust for variety, support, and harvest style.
Spacing depends on harvest style
Baby greens, full-size lettuce, scallions, and bulb onions can all use different spacing even when they are technically the same crop family.
Raised beds can be tighter than rows
Because raised beds are reached from the sides, they often do not need wide traditional row paths inside the bed.
Large plants still need space
Tomatoes, peppers, zucchini, cucumbers, and kale need airflow and access even in intensive gardens.
Greens
Lettuce, spinach, cilantro, and kale work well for repeat sowing.
Fruiting crops
Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and zucchini need more room and support.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use row spacing in a raised bed?
Use row spacing as a conservative reference, but many raised beds can use block spacing because paths are outside the bed.
Next step
Open the full crop spacing chart, then run the crops you are considering through the calculator. Open the calculator with these defaults, or check the monthly sowing calendar before you plant.