How Much Soil Do I Need?

by Maggie

How much space do I need to grow 6 plants each of the following vegetables:

1. Peppers; jalapeno
2. Cucumber; Muncher
3. Broccoli; De Cicco.
4. Tomato
5. Cantaloupe
6. Onion; White Lisbon Bunching.
7. Pepper; California Wonder.
8. Pepper; Sweet Babana.
9. Pepper; Grand Bell Mix

I want to grow them from seed in time for eating.

Thank you for your time and knowledge in this matter. I have never grown anything in my life up to this point.

Answer:

Hi Maggie,

The cucumber and cantaloupe plants will take up a lot of room unless you grow them vertically using a trellis or cage for them to climb.

You will need to allow at least 4 square feet for each plant if they sprawl. Probably 3 square feet will be enough if you use a cage or trellis.

Tomatoes also require at least 3 feet by 3 feet even if you grow them in a cage.

The rest of your plants will need about 16" each; except for the six onions. They will only need about one square foot of garden space.

I would plan on about a 12' x 25' garden plot to grow these vegetables.

You didn't say where you live, but be aware that you won't be able to grow tomatoes or peppers from seed-to-eating in many of the cooler parts of the country, unless you start the seeds indoors or in a green house 8-10 weeks before outdoor planting time in your area.

You can also buy small transplants of these vegetables at a garden center if needed.

Hope this helps. Good luck. Take pictures and send them to us if you can!