All New Square Foot Gardening - by Mel Bartholomew

"All New Square Foot Gardening" by Mel Bartholomew - the foundational reference for the popular Square Foot Gardening method. Mel Bartholomew (1931-2016) developed the method as an efficient, accessible approach to small-space vegetable and herb gardening that has become one of the most-practiced gardening systems worldwide.

About Square Foot Gardening

The Square Foot Gardening method divides garden beds into small (typically 1-foot square) planting areas, with each area planted with a specific number of plants depending on species (1 tomato per square, 4 lettuce per square, 16 carrots per square, etc.). The system uses raised beds with a specific soil mix ("Mel's Mix" - equal parts compost, peat moss, and vermiculite), efficient irrigation, and trellis-supported vertical growing for climbing plants. The system is particularly popular for small-space gardening, urban gardening, and accessible gardening for users with physical limitations.

Key Facts

Title

All New Square Foot Gardening

Author

Mel Bartholomew

Focus

Intensive small-space vegetable and herb gardening

Method components

Gridded raised beds, "Mel's Mix" soil, density-based planting, vertical growing for climbers

Suitable for

Small-space gardeners, urban gardeners, accessible gardening

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Square Foot Gardening?
An intensive small-space gardening method using gridded raised beds with density-based planting.

What's "Mel's Mix"?
The specific soil mix Bartholomew recommends - equal parts compost, peat moss, and vermiculite.

Is it good for small spaces?
Yes; the method was specifically developed for small-space gardening efficiency.

Does it work for herbs?
Yes; the method works for herbs, vegetables, and flowers.

Is it suitable for accessible gardening?
Yes; the raised-bed format is particularly accessible for gardeners with physical limitations.

How many plants per square foot?
Varies by plant - 1 for large plants like tomatoes, 4 for medium plants like lettuce, 16 for small plants like radishes.