Easily calculate the best garden bed size for your space and planting needs. Supports metric & imperial units, includes cost estimate, & works for raised beds.
Enter your measurements above to see the results.
Calculate the area of one bed as length × width. Multiply by the number of beds for total bed area. Add the space between beds to the total length for overall footprint. Multiply the cost per bed by number of beds for the total cost.
Inputs: Metric, Bed length = 2.4 m, Bed width = 1.2 m, Bed height = 30 cm, Number of beds = 3, Space between beds = 0.6 m, Currency = GBP, Cost per bed = 50. Output: Individual bed area = 2.88 m², Total garden bed area = 8.64 m², Total footprint (including spacing) = 9.36 m², Total cost = £150.00.
Selecting the right garden bed size depends on your available space, what you plan to grow, and accessibility. Most gardeners find beds 1 to 1.2 metres (3 to 4 feet) wide allow easy reach from both sides, while lengths can vary based on your plot. Taller beds are great for root crops or improved drainage.
Leave enough space between beds for comfortable movement and maintenance. A gap of 0.6 to 1 metre (2 to 3 feet) is typical, allowing for wheelbarrow access and easy weeding. This calculator includes your selected spacing in the total footprint calculation.
Raised beds offer better drainage, prevent soil compaction, and can be easier on your back. In-ground beds are suitable for larger plots and can be less expensive. Adjust bed height in the calculator to suit your needs and growing preferences.
Enter an estimated cost per bed to calculate your total project budget. Costs can include materials like timber, soil, and fixings. The calculator multiplies your cost per bed by the number of beds for a quick total.
Some crops, like tomatoes, need more space per plant, while leafy greens can be grown closer together. Plan bed width and length according to your crop requirements for the best results.
Measure the length and width of the area you want to use for your garden bed with a tape measure. For raised beds, also measure the height. Record your measurements in metres or feet depending on your preference.
A common raised bed size is 1.2 m (4 ft) wide and 2.4 m (8 ft) long, but the ideal size depends on your space and what you want to grow. Choose a width you can reach across easily from both sides.
For most vegetables, a height of 20–40 cm (8–16 inches) is sufficient. Taller beds (up to 60 cm or 24 inches) help with deeper rooting crops or if improved accessibility is needed.
Leave at least 60 cm (2 ft) between beds for walking and maintenance. If you use a wheelbarrow, consider spacing of 90 cm to 1 m (3 to 3.3 ft) between beds.
Tomatoes need around 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) between plants. A bed 1.2 m (4 ft) wide and 2.4 m (8 ft) long can fit several tomato plants with enough space for healthy growth.
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