Article category: Garden Design. Published 2026-04-28 by Pocket Gardener Team.
Topics: raised bed garden, garden layout, vegetable garden design, small garden ideas, bed planning, garden design.
Questions answered in this article
What is the best layout for a raised bed vegetable garden?
The best layout depends on your crops and access needs, but most gardeners do well with narrow beds no wider than 1.2 metres, intensive spacing, vertical support on the southern or western edge where appropriate, and crop grouping by height and watering needs.
How far apart should raised beds be?
Leave at least 45-60cm between raised beds for comfortable access, wheelbarrow movement, and airflow. Wider paths of 75-90cm are better if you use carts, have mobility needs, or want room to kneel and harvest comfortably.
Can I mix flowers and vegetables in the same raised bed?
Yes. Mixing flowers, herbs, and vegetables can improve pollination, pest control, and visual appeal. Choose companions with similar sun and water needs, and avoid letting vigorous ornamentals crowd productive crops.
What should I plant in the corners and middle of raised beds?
Use corners for sprawling or trailing plants if they can spill outward, and reserve central spaces for crops that benefit from even access on all sides. Taller crops usually belong on the side that will not shade the rest of the bed.
How do I plan crop rotation in raised beds?
Rotate plant families rather than individual crops. Keep nightshades, brassicas, legumes, and root crops moving between beds each season to reduce pest buildup and nutrient depletion. A simple four-bed rotation works well for many gardens.