recommendations for garden spacing - Ask Extension
How were the recommendations for the spacing of garden plants and rows developed? I see recommendations for space between rows that seem excessive, ...
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recommendations for garden spacing #745765
Asked April 22, 2021, 6:27 PM EDT
How were the recommendations for the spacing of garden plants and rows developed? I see recommendations for space between rows that seem excessive, for example, 36” between rows. Was this originally for commercial gardens? Is it based on average or depleted soils?
Franklin County Ohio
Expert Response
Greetings,
Spacing within rows was most likely measured by spread of leaves and root volume. It is good to not crowd your plants to allow them to mature without competition for air, water, and nutrients. The space between rows was likely developed to facilitate mechanical planting, fertilizing and harvest by machinery. In a raised bed, you can use plant spacing when you plan your garden.
Tim
