Figuring out how much to plant can feel like a bit of a guessing game. Plant too little, and you’ll run out of tomatoes halfway through the season. Plant too much, and you’ll be sneaking zucchinis onto your neighbor’s porch. Striking the right balance takes a little planning, but it’s worth it when your meals are full of food you grew yourself.
This guide gives you a practical breakdown of how much to grow per person to keep fresh produce on the table all season long. It’s not about maximizing yield at all costs—it’s about planting what makes sense for your household, your space, and how much time you actually want to spend harvesting and preserving.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes, with their juicy, sun-kissed flavor, are a garden staple. For fresh salads and sauces, plan on planting two to three plants per person. Each healthy tomato plant can yield 10 to 15 pounds of fruit.
If you love making homemade salsa or canning, consider doubling the number of plants. Heirloom varieties bring a colorful array to your garden and can be a conversation starter.
Did you know tomatoes were once thought to be poisonous? Thankfully, they’re now a beloved staple in kitchens worldwide!
Carrots
Crunchy and sweet, carrots are a delightful addition to any garden. Plant approximately 10 to 12 feet of row per person to enjoy them fresh all season.
If you’re a fan of carrot juice or roasted carrots, you might want to extend your carrot rows. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which promotes good vision.
Historically, purple carrots were more common than the orange ones we know today. Their colorful history adds a whimsical touch to your garden.
Lettuce
Lettuce, with its crisp texture and refreshing taste, is a must-have for salads. For a continuous supply, plant about four to six heads of lettuce per person.
Stagger your planting every few weeks to ensure a steady harvest. Lettuce is a quick grower and can be harvested multiple times in a season.
Did you know lettuce was served to ancient kings due to its perceived medicinal properties? This regal green is perfect for any garden.
Zucchini
Zucchini is renowned for its prolific nature. One to two plants per person are often sufficient to keep you well-supplied.
They grow quickly, and you might find yourself sharing with friends and family! Zucchini can be grilled, baked, or spiralized into noodles, offering versatility in the kitchen.
Fun fact: zucchini flowers are edible and can be a delicious delicacy. Embrace their abundance in your garden.
Peppers
Peppers add a pop of color and spice to meals. For fresh use, plant three to five plants per person.
Whether you prefer sweet bell peppers or spicy varieties, they’ll brighten up your garden with their vibrant hues. Peppers thrive in warm climates and can be grown in containers too.
Historically, peppers were among the first crops cultivated by humans. Their versatility and flavor have made them a staple worldwide.
Beans
Beans are a versatile crop, offering protein and fiber. Plan on planting 10 to 15 plants per person for a steady supply.
They can be eaten fresh, canned, or frozen, making them a valuable addition to your garden. Beans enrich the soil by fixing nitrogen, benefiting other plants.
Did you know that beans have been cultivated for over 7,000 years? Their long history makes them a classic choice for gardeners.
Cucumbers
Refreshing and crisp, cucumbers are ideal for summer salads. Plant two to three plants per person to enjoy a bounty of fresh cukes.
They’re perfect for pickling or adding a cooling element to meals. Cucumbers prefer warm, sunny spots and regular watering.
Fun fact: cucumbers are 95% water, making them a hydrating snack during hot days. Their refreshing nature is a garden favorite.
Spinach
Spinach offers a nutritious green that’s easy to grow. Plant about 30-40 plants per person for a generous supply.
It grows well in cool weather, allowing for both spring and fall harvests. Spinach is packed with iron and vitamins, making it a healthful choice.
Did you know that spinach originated in ancient Persia? This historical green continues to be a beloved staple in gardens everywhere.
Radishes
Radishes add a peppery crunch to dishes. Plant 10-15 feet of row per person for a consistent supply.
They mature quickly, allowing for multiple harvests throughout the season. Radishes can be roasted or pickled, offering diverse culinary uses.
Historically, radishes were one of the first European crops brought to the Americas. Their quick growth makes them a rewarding crop.
Corn
Corn, with its sweet and satisfying kernels, is a summer delight. Plant 10-20 plants per person for fresh corn on the cob.
It requires space and warmth, but the reward is worthwhile. Corn can be grilled or boiled, delivering a taste of summer at every bite.
Did you know corn has been cultivated for over 9,000 years? Its rich history and delicious taste make it a garden favorite.