Raised Bed Garden Layout: Spacing and Planning

Layout decides how much work a garden is. Get these four numbers right and everything else is easier.

Bed width: 1.2m (4ft) maximum

You need to reach the middle from both sides. Anything wider and you will be standing on the soil, which compacts it.

Path width: 45-60cm (18-24in)

Wide enough for a wheelbarrow and for kneeling. Grass paths need mowing - bark or gravel does not.

Bed length: as long as you like

Length is free. It is width and path spacing that decide how usable the plot is.

A simple 4-bed rotation

• Bed 1: legumes (peas, beans) - fix nitrogen
• Bed 2: brassicas (cabbage, kale)
• Bed 3: roots (carrots, onions)
• Bed 4: potatoes, then salad after

Rotate one bed forward each year. It breaks pest and disease cycles without any chemicals.

Orientation

Run beds north-south where you can - both sides get sun through the day instead of one side being shaded.

Common questions

How wide should a raised bed be?

1.2m (4ft) maximum so you can reach the middle from both sides. 1m is easier for most people.

How wide should garden paths be?

45-60cm (18-24in) - enough for a wheelbarrow and for kneeling.

What is a good raised bed rotation?

Legumes, then brassicas, then roots, then potatoes with salad after. Move each crop one bed forward every year.

If you want the complete guide: the 5 Foot Farm guide.

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