Last Updated on August 9, 2022 by Real Men Sow
It is important to leave enough space between vegetable plants. Each plant requires a certain amount for its roots and leaves. This is not all, providing enough air for the plants to breathe also helps prevent diseases spreading, especially during wet and humid seasons. This is especially true for spore-carried diseases like blight, mildew, and chocolate spots on broad beans.
Why Should You Care About Plant Spacing
Many gardeners plant closer than the planting recommendation for raised beds. This is because raised beds are more fertile and will result in better plant growth. While this is true, you can plant most things in half the space you would normally use, but it’s best to follow the planting advice unless you’re an expert gardener. This is because it takes an experienced gardener to understand the soil quality and how different vegetables grow.
Does Plant Spacing Work?
Stick to the plan, even if you are unsure. The growing guide we sent with your plants contains all the information about spacing. You can refer to it as you plant your autumn vegetables and they will thrive.
5 Reasons Why Recommended Plant Spacing Work
1. Plant Spacing Gives Plants Proper Nutrient Intake
Plants require nutrients. These nutrients are found in the sun, soil, and any amendments or fertilizers we apply to the soil during the season. Plants that are forced to compete for nutrients from the soil and sunlight will not be as healthy as plants that have all they need. Their roots will also have to compete for water and nutrients, as well as for space.
A problem can also arise from too few plants. Some plants, such as apple and corn trees, require that there be at least one neighbor to pollinate them. Make sure you have enough. Properly spaced plants can shade weeds and keep soil moist.
2. Disease Management
Two ways to reduce the risk of getting sick is to space your plants properly. Plants that are too close together can spread disease easily. Air circulation is also reduced by overcrowding, which can help prevent diseases. This increases the likelihood of your plants getting sick.
3. Weeding
To promote healthy plants, it is important to manage weeds. Too many plants can make it difficult to weed. This ultimately leads to more weeds.
4. Easing of Harvest
It is much easier to harvest when plants are properly spaced. It is possible to access your plant from all sides, without having to worry about it being sabotaged by its neighbor. This will allow you to better assess your yields. It is also important to space rows. Because if you find it difficult to move between the rows due to an ambitious garden plan, harvesting will be more difficult.
5. Increases the Yield
If you don’t believe that plant spacing is important, here are some reasons. Plants spaced properly produce greater yields. It is possible to get more produce from fewer plants. This will save you time, effort and money.