When planning your vegetable garden it is a good idea to think of how much space each of your plants require. This will ensure not only that you have happy, healthy plants, but that you will also have a functional garden.

Plants need the correct space between to ensure their roots have room to grow and the leaves have space to spread. Roots that need to compete with other plants that are too close, will never take up enough nutrition and water. Leaves that rub against other plants will become damaged, harbour pests and spread disease. 

On top of that you need to consider walkways and buildings. You don't want to be knocking fruit off your tomatoes or treading on trailing cucumber vines when getting around your patch. You also don't want them invading your house, sheds or patio areas.

Use our handy chart to see the average space your plants will need. Just bear in mind that different varieties will have slightly different growing characteristics so further research may be required.