Which direction should vegetable rows run?

North-south orientation gives the most even sun distribution. In the UK, run rows along the longest dimension for efficiency.

How wide should paths between rows be?

Allow 30-45 cm for kneeling access and 60 cm for paths you walk along. Wheelbarrow paths need 90 cm minimum.

Should row spacing be wider than plant spacing?

Usually yes. Row spacing accounts for root spread, air circulation, and access for weeding and harvesting.

Should row direction matter?

Run rows north to south when possible so both sides get equal sunlight through the day. For sloping sites, run rows across the slope to reduce soil erosion from rain.

How many plants fit in a row?

Divide the row length by the plant spacing, then add 1 for the end plant. For example, a 3m row at 30cm spacing: 3 / 0.3 + 1 = 11 plants per row.

GardenCalcs

Row Planting Calculator — Plants per Row

Calculate plant quantities for straight rows in beds and allotments.

Row Length

Number of Rows

Plant Spacing (in row)

Row Spacing

How We Calculate This

Plants per row = Floor(Row Length ÷ Plant Spacing) + 1.

Total plants = Plants per Row × Number of Rows.

Bed width = (Number of Rows - 1) × Row Spacing.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates based on standard gardening guidelines. Results may vary with soil conditions, climate, and plant varieties.