In a square foot garden, a variety of plants can thrive, thanks to the efficient use of space and the principles of polyculture. This gardening style allows for a diverse mix of plants to be grown in a small area, maximizing productivity and minimizing the need for pesticides and fertilizers. Let’s explore the types of plants that grow best in a square foot garden.
1. Vining Tomato: One vining tomato plant can be trained to grow vertically, taking advantage of the vertical space in the garden. This helps to save precious ground space and encourages better air circulation, reducing the risk of diseases.
2. Pepper: A single pepper plant, whether it’s a sweet bell pepper or a spicy chili pepper, can thrive in a square foot garden. Peppers generally have a compact growth habit and can be easily accommodated in a small space.
3. Melon: While melons are traditionally known for their sprawling vines, certain compact varieties, such as bush melons or small watermelons, can be grown successfully in a square foot garden. Providing a trellis or support for the melon vines can help save space and promote healthier growth.
4. Okra: Okra plants have a vertical growth habit and can be grown in a square foot garden. They produce beautiful flowers and delicious pods, making them a great addition to a polyculture bed.
5. Peas: Eight pea plants can be grown in a square foot garden, as they have a bushy growth habit and do not require much space. Peas also provide nitrogen fixation, which benefits the surrounding plants.
6. Bush Beans: Nine bush bean plants can be grown in a square foot garden, offering a high yield in a small space. They are relatively easy to care for and are great for adding nitrogen to the soil.
7. Cauliflower: One cauliflower plant can be grown in a square foot garden, as it forms a compact head. It requires well-draining soil and regular watering, but with proper care, you can enjoy homegrown cauliflower.
8. Broccoli: Similar to cauliflower, one broccoli plant can be grown in a square foot garden. It is a cool-season crop and can be planted in spring or fall for a bountiful harvest.
9. Kale: One kale plant can be grown in a square foot garden, providing a continuous supply of nutritious greens. Kale is a hardy plant and can withstand colder temperatures, making it suitable for year-round gardening in some regions.
10. Leaf Lettuces: Four leaf lettuce plants can be grown in a square foot garden, providing a variety of colors and flavors. Lettuces grow quickly and can be harvested multiple times, making them an excellent choice for continuous harvesting.
11. Onions: Sixteen small onion plants can be grown in a square foot garden. Onions are easy to grow and can be harvested at different stages, from green onions to mature bulbs.
12. Radishes: Sixteen small radish plants can also be grown in a square foot garden. Radishes have a quick growing cycle and can be harvested in a few weeks, making them a great companion plant for slower-growing vegetables.
13. Bok Choy: Four bok choy plants can be grown in a square foot garden. This leafy green vegetable adds a unique flavor to dishes and is quick to mature.
14. Herbs: Square foot gardens are perfect for growing herbs such as basil, parsley, cilantro, and thyme. These herbs can be grown in small sections of the bed, adding flavor and fragrance to your meals.
By incorporating a range of plants with different growth habits, you can create a vibrant and productive square foot garden. The key is to choose plants that complement each other and thrive in the available space. With proper care and attention, your square foot garden can provide a bountiful harvest throughout the growing season.
