Grow more with less: Discover square metre vegetable gardening

Square metre gardening has been embraced by home growers since it was introduced in the mid-1970s, and once you understand the core principles, it’s easy to see why it’s become so popular. 

This simple yet powerful method saves time, effort, and money. Compared to traditional single-row gardening, it: 

• Costs around 50% less 
• Uses 20% less space 
• Requires just 10% of the water 
• Takes only 2% of the work 
• Involves minimal weeding and no digging 
• Doesn’t need fertilisers or heavy tools 

If more crops and less work sound appealing, read on! 

Why try square metre gardening?

Save space 

 As the name suggests, a square metre garden uses a raised bed measuring 1m x 1m, filled with soil to a depth of about 15cm and divided into 16 equal squares – each 25cm x 25cm. 

This compact design is perfect for homes with limited space: small backyards, patios, even balconies. For those with larger spaces, it means more produce in less area. 

You can also attach a trellis to grow crops vertically, making even better use of the space. 

Grow more variety 

Each square is planted with a different crop, based on how large the plant grows and how quickly it matures. You might plant 1, 2, 4, 9, or 16 seeds per square depending on the crop – check out this guide to help plan your planting. 

This diversity means you’ll always have a mix of herbs, vegetables, or fruit on the go. It’s also healthier for the soil and helps reduce pests and disease. 

Enjoy higher yields 

This method is incredibly efficient. Plants are grouped closely in blocks rather than spaced out in rows, helping you get the most out of every square metre. 

Minimise weeds 

With crops growing close together, there’s less room for weeds to take hold. And by replanting each square as soon as it’s harvested, you further prevent weed growth. 

Make it ergonomic and accessible 

The one-metre size means that each plant is easily reachable for most adults, avoiding the need to lean on (or stand on) plants as in traditional garden beds, which can often cause damage or hinder growth. 

Add legs and a base, and it becomes a raised garden – ideal for anyone with mobility issues or who prefers to garden standing or seated. 

If you’re short on space and the square metre won’t quite fit, simply build a 50cm square block and follow the same principles for each 25cm block within the garden bed. 

How to build a square metre garden

Build or buy your bed 

Use untreated wood to make a 1m x 1m box. If treating the timber, only coat the outside to avoid contact with the soil. Or if you’re not handy purchase a premade bed. Lay down landscape fabric or a weed mat before filling.   

Create your soil mix 

Use the ultimate blend:

• ⅓ coarse-grade vermiculite 
• ⅓ peat moss or coconut coir (Coco Peat) 
• ⅓ organic compost 

Add your grid and start planting 

Divide the bed into 16 squares using string, twine, or wooden strips. Then choose your crops – this guide can help you plan.

Gardening and biomethane: a future-friendly connection 

Did you know your garden can also support a renewable energy future? 

As organic material decomposes, it produces biogas, which can be cleaned and upgraded into biomethane – a renewable gas that works just like the natural gas many homes use today. 

Biomethane can energise cooking, heating, and hot water — helping reduce emissions without changing how you use energy. By composting your food and garden scraps (like those from your square metre bed), you could help Aotearoa transition to renewable energy. 

Try this fun biogas experiment with your kids to see how leftover food releases gas as it breaks down! 

Ready to give it a go? 

More crops with less work – what’s not to love? Square metre gardening ticks all the boxes for a fun, productive, and eco-friendly DIY project. 

Tag us on Instagram @thegashubnz and show off your garden!