The Ultimate Checklist for Planting Vegetables in a Raised Bed: Space, Quantity & Best Seasons

Are you ready to transform your raised bed into a thriving vegetable garden? Raised beds are an excellent way to grow fresh, healthy produce while maximizing space and controlling soil quality. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, knowing what veggies to plant, how much space they need, and when to plant them is key to a successful harvest. Understanding your USDA planting zone is crucial for determining the best planting times—find your zone here.

In this guide, you’ll find a detailed checklist to help you choose the best vegetables for your raised bed, plan their spacing, and determine the right planting season for each one. Let’s dig in!

Why Raised Bed Gardening?

Before diving into the checklist, let’s quickly go over the benefits of raised beds:

• Better Soil Control – You can choose nutrient-rich soil that drains well.
• Fewer Weeds – Raised beds reduce weed competition.
• Extended Growing Season – The soil warms up faster in spring.
• Higher Yield – With proper spacing, you can grow more in a small area.

Checklist: What to Plant in a Raised Bed

Spring & Summer Vegetables

These warm-season crops thrive when the soil has warmed up and there’s plenty of sunlight.

Tomatoes

• Space Needed: 18-24 inches apart
• Quantity: 1-2 plants per square foot (with support)
• Best Time to Plant: After the last frost, when the soil reaches at least 60°F (16°C)
• Planting by Zone:
  • Zones 3-5: May-June
  • Zones 6-7: April-May
  • Zones 8-10: February-April
• Companion Plants: Basil, onions, carrots
• Tip: Use cages or stakes to support growth and save space.

Peppers (Bell & Hot)

• Space Needed: 12-18 inches apart
• Quantity: 2 plants per square foot
• Best Time to Plant: After the last frost
• Planting by Zone:
  • Zones 3-5: May-June
  • Zones 6-7: April-May
  • Zones 8-10: February-April
• Companion Plants: Basil, onions, carrots
• Tip: Companion plant with basil to deter pests.

Cucumbers

• Space Needed: 12 inches apart (trellis recommended)
• Quantity: 2-3 plants per square foot
• Best Time to Plant: After the last frost
• Planting by Zone:
  • Zones 3-5: May-June
  • Zones 6-7: April-May
  • Zones 8-10: March-April
• Companion Plants: Beans, lettuce, radishes
• Tip: Train vines to grow vertically for better airflow and space efficiency.

Cool-Season Vegetables (Fall & Early Spring)

These crops thrive in cooler temperatures and can even tolerate light frosts.

Carrots

• Space Needed: 2 inches apart
• Quantity: 16 per square foot
• Best Time to Plant: Early spring and late summer
• Planting by Zone:
  • Zones 3-5: April-May, August
  • Zones 6-7: March-April, September
  • Zones 8-10: February-March, October
• Companion Plants: Lettuce, onions, tomatoes
• Tip: Loose, well-draining soil is essential for straight, healthy roots.

Radishes

• Space Needed: 1-2 inches apart
• Quantity: 16 per square foot
• Best Time to Plant: Early spring and fall
• Planting by Zone:
  • Zones 3-5: April-May, August-September
  • Zones 6-7: March-April, September-October
  • Zones 8-10: February-March, October-November
• Companion Plants: Cucumbers, lettuce, carrots
• Tip: Harvest quickly (in about 30 days) to prevent a woody texture.

Year-Round Vegetables

Some veggies can be grown almost year-round, depending on your region and if you use row covers or cold frames.

Herbs (Basil, Parsley, Cilantro, Chives, Thyme)

• Space Needed: 6-12 inches apart (varies by herb)
• Quantity: Several per square foot
• Best Time to Plant: Spring through fall (or year-round indoors)
• Planting by Zone:
  • Zones 3-5: May-September
  • Zones 6-7: April-October
  • Zones 8-10: February-November
• Companion Plants: Tomatoes, peppers, carrots
• Tip: Frequent harvesting promotes bushier growth.

Bonus Tips for a Thriving Raised Bed Garden

• Use Companion Planting – Some plants help deter pests or improve flavor when grown together.
• Rotate Crops – Avoid planting the same vegetable in the same spot each year to prevent soil depletion.
• Add Mulch – Helps retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.
• Water Deeply – Raised beds drain faster, so deep watering is crucial.
• Use Vertical Gardening – Trellises, cages, and stakes maximize space and yield.

A raised bed is one of the easiest and most efficient ways to grow a variety of vegetables in a limited space. By carefully planning which veggies to plant, giving them the right amount of space, and following seasonal guidelines, you’ll enjoy a bountiful harvest throughout the year.

Are you ready to start your raised bed garden? Which vegetables are you most excited to plant? Let us know in the comments below!

Want more planting tips? Don’t miss this guide on 12 Easy Vegetables You Can Grow at Home—perfect for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike!