Size

Once a garden site has been selected the appropriate size should be planned. Some schools have a limited amount of space for a garden and size has already been predetermined. In this situation, careful planning will insure that every square foot is allocated for the best possible planting advantage.

Use rolling raised beds		Good use of a small space

At other schools the amount of space for a garden may be abundant. These gardens must also be carefully planned. Consider garden development in several stages. Starting with a large garden may over-tax available time and funds. Click here to link to Garden Design Planting Beds for examples of bed sizes.

Consider and address the following elements when planning the size of a garden:

• Numbers of teachers and students who will use the garden
• Kinds of plants to be included and their space requirements
• Size of pathways
• Space for storage to hold tools and supplies
• Area for composting
• Room for greenhouse or cold frame
• Spaces for permanent plantings such as vines, trees, and shrubs
• Areas to place tables for class instruction and for potting benches
• Number and sizes of beds
• Resources and materials available for construction and startup costs
• Start up money and annual budget available for garden expenses

Take all of these considerations into account as your further develop your garden plan.