Garden Size Calculator
Plan your garden beds and materials
Garden Bed Dimensions
Bed Measurements
Soil Required
Bags Needed
Add 10-15% extra for settling
Garden Planning Tips
Bed Width Matters
Keep beds 3-4 feet wide so you can reach the center without stepping on soil. Compacted soil hurts root growth and drainage. Wider beds need stepping stones or paths.
Sun Orientation
Orient beds north-south for even sun exposure. Place tall plants on the north side so they don't shade shorter ones. Most vegetables need 6-8 hours of direct sun.
Water Access
Place beds within hose reach of a water source. Consider drip irrigation for efficiency. Raised beds dry out faster than in-ground gardens and need more frequent watering.
Path Width
Leave 18-24 inches between beds for walking. For wheelbarrow access, make paths 3 feet wide. Mulch paths to suppress weeds and keep feet clean.
Start Small
A 4×8 foot bed produces plenty for beginners. It's better to maintain a small garden well than neglect a large one. Expand as you gain experience.
Crop Rotation
Don't plant the same family in the same spot yearly. Rotate tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant together. This prevents soil depletion and reduces pest buildup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use raised beds or in-ground gardens?
Raised beds offer better drainage, warmer soil in spring, easier weed control, and less bending. They're ideal for poor native soil, heavy clay, or areas with contamination concerns. In-ground gardens cost less to start and retain moisture better. Choose raised beds if you have back problems, poor soil, or want a neater appearance.
What's the best soil mix for raised beds?
A classic mix is 60% topsoil, 30% compost, and 10% aeration material (perlite, vermiculite, or coarse sand). Some gardeners use "Mel's Mix" from Square Foot Gardening: equal parts peat moss, vermiculite, and blended compost. Avoid pure potting mix in large beds - it's too light and dries quickly. Add compost annually to maintain fertility.
How deep do raised beds need to be?
Most vegetables thrive in 12 inches of soil. Shallow-rooted crops like lettuce and herbs can grow in 6 inches. Deep-rooted crops like tomatoes and carrots prefer 12-18 inches. If placing beds on concrete or poor soil, go deeper. On good native soil, even 6-inch beds work since roots can penetrate below.
Is bagged soil or bulk delivery cheaper?
Bulk delivery is significantly cheaper for large projects. A cubic yard of bulk soil costs $30-50, while the same volume in bags costs $100-150. Bulk makes sense for 2+ cubic yards. For a single 4×8 bed, bags may be more convenient despite higher cost. Calculate your total volume before deciding.
How much garden space do I need to feed my family?
A rough guide: 100-200 square feet per person for fresh eating during growing season. For year-round supply with preserving, plan 400-600 square feet per person. A 4×8 bed (32 sq ft) can produce 50+ pounds of vegetables per season with intensive planting. Start with 100 sq ft and expand based on your actual consumption.
When should I add mulch to my garden?
Apply mulch after soil warms in late spring for vegetable gardens. Mulching too early keeps soil cold and delays growth. For perennial beds, mulch in fall to protect roots over winter, then refresh in spring. Keep mulch 2-3 inches away from plant stems to prevent rot and pest problems.
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