Sometimes All We Need is a Little Space

 Just like life, sometimes all we need to grow is a little space. Same concept when planting or sowing seeds. In line with my mission to decommission gardening gatekeepers and demystify vegetable growing knowledge, I will keep things simple and intentionally plain (even dull at times). 

Keep in mind, that there will be so-called "experts" (some which are valid and others which are not) that will label my approach as grossly oversimplified. That's the point. I believe that it is better to add on to the basic principles presented below, rather than flood you with volumes of data and expect you (the beginning gardener) to extract the essential bits.

So without further delay, below are very basic tips on spacing:

1. Overcrowding your vegetables is a very common mistake that can effect plant health (long story short, plants need their own space so they don't compete for resources like sun and nutrients)
2. If sowing (planting directly in soil) seeds, make sure to note the spacing instructions on the seed packet. They are listed on there for a reason, don't go rogue. If you don't have that information, try researching it online (i.e., google spacing requirements for unicorn melon seeds)
3. When planting transplants (plants that have been grown from seeds and sold in nurseries or online), spacing requirements are usually listed on the packaging. Research online if not, and again, don't go rogue
4. Lastly, root length of vegetables will vary. Make a note of what you're growing and if your growing medium will provide enough room for them to grow adequately. The chart below (borrowed from the 'Grow LA Vegetable Garden' class I teach) helps visualize this: