GardenCalcs.uk
Raised Bed Vegetable Calculator — Plan Your Raised Bed
Plan what to grow in a raised bed with spacing and yield estimates.
Longest side of the bed — 1.8m, 2.4m and 3.6m are the common kit sizes
1.2m lets you reach the centre from both sides without treading on the soil
Pick a crop to estimate plant spacing, quantity and expected harvest weight
Adjust expected yield per plant (default 1.0 = standard UK conditions)
Increase spacing between plants: 1.5 = 50% wider (default 1.0)
How We Calculate This
Bed area = Length × Width. Plant count = Area × Plants per m² for the chosen crop.
Yield estimates are based on average UK growing conditions with recommended spacing for raised bed growing.
Raised beds often produce higher yields than open ground because of better soil, drainage, and less compaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.2m wide is ideal so you can reach the centre from both sides without stepping on the soil. Lengths of 1.8m, 2.4m, or 3.6m are most popular.
At least 200mm for salads, 300mm for roots like carrots and beetroot, and 450mm+ if placing on concrete or poor ground.
Yes. Use companion planting principles - grow compatible crops together. Avoid planting the same crop family in the same bed two years running.
A good mix is 60% topsoil, 30% compost, and 10% perlite or grit for drainage. Avoid using 100% compost as it compacts over time.
Better drainage, warmer soil in spring, no compaction from walking, easier to manage soil quality, and better access for those with mobility issues.
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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.