When designing and planting raised garden beds, it’s important to consider how deep the roots grow. If your raised garden bed is on top of regular soil, this shouldn’t be an issue. However, if the bed is on top of concrete or inadequate soil, make sure the raised bed is deep enough for the plants you’d like to grow.
Soil Depth Requirements for Common Vegetables
| Shallow Rooting (12"-18") | Medium Rooting (18"-24") | Deep Rooting (24"+) |
|---|---|---|
| Arugula | Beans | Artichoke |
| Bok Choy | Beets | Asparagus |
| Broccoli | Cantaloupe | Okra |
| Brussel sprouts | Carrots | Parsnips |
| Cabbage | Chard | Pumpkin |
| Cauliflower | Cucumber | Rhubarb |
| Celery | Eggplant | Squash (winter) |
| Chives | Kale | Sweet potatoes |
| Corn | Peas | Tomatoes |
| Endive | Peppers | Watermelon |
| Garlic | Rutabagas | |
| Kohlrabi | Squash (summer) | |
| Leeks | Turnips | |
| Lettuce | ||
| Onions | ||
| Potatoes | ||
| Radishes | ||
| Spinach | ||
| Strawberries |