I'm planning to grow vegetables on my roof using steel raised garden beds. The roof can handle the weight, as my neighbors have a hot tub on it. I'm wondering if 1ft (12 inches) of soil depth is sufficient for growing most plants. While 1ft seems to be a standard depth, I've noticed some beds come in 2ft options. I'm particularly interested in growing tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers, but I'd like to ensure I have enough depth to accommodate future plants. Should I go for 1ft, or is it better to opt for a deeper bed?
5 Answers
It really depends on what you're planting! For most fruiting plants like tomatoes, 12 inches works, but for root veggies like carrots, you want at least 12+ inches. Just remember: 6-12 for the fruits, 12+ for the roots!
Keep in mind that when you fill the bed, there’s often less than the full depth of soil to work with. So that 1ft might translate to more like 10 inches once you account for settling. That’s pretty shallow for plants like tomatoes, so I'd suggest going for 2ft if you can.
I'd recommend a minimum of 18 inches. More depth is usually better for nutrient retention and root growth.
Honestly, I encourage you to give it a shot! Most crops do well in about 8 inches of soil, with some exceptions like root veggies. For tomatoes, peppers, and lettuces, 1ft should be just fine. Even peas and beans thrive in that depth. Commercial growers often use less soil, but ensure it's well-fertilized. So, I’d say you’re probably good to go!
Thanks for the encouragement!
If I were you, I'd definitely consider going for at least 2ft, or even 3ft if you can manage it. It gives your plants more room to grow and makes a big difference in the long run.
I think I’ll stick with the 12 inches, especially since they’re going on my roof/patio. An extra 6 inches is a lot of weight, so I want to play it safe.