How Deep Should a Raised Bed or Pot Be for Growing Vegetables and Herbs?
Raised Bed Garden
When starting a garden, one of the most common questions is: How deep should my raised bed or container be? The answer depends on what you’re growing. Different vegetables and herbs have different root systems, and choosing the right depth is the key to healthy, productive plants.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the ideal depths for raised beds and pots, from shallow-rooted greens to deep-rooted crops, so you can plan your garden with confidence.
Why Depth Matters in Gardening
Plant roots need enough room to spread, absorb water, and take in nutrients. If the soil is too shallow, roots can become cramped, leading to weak plants and smaller harvests. On the other hand, deeper soil means stronger root systems, better drought resistance, and more abundant yields.
When thinking about depth, remember:
Shallow-rooted crops thrive in 6–8 inches.
Medium-rooted crops need 10–12 inches.
Deep-rooted crops prefer 18 inches or more.
Best Raised Bed Depths by Plant Type
Here’s a breakdown of common vegetables and herbs with the depth they need to thrive:
🌱 Shallow-Rooted (6–8 inches)
Perfect for window boxes, pots, and shallow raised beds.
Lettuce
Spinach
Arugula
Radishes
Green onions
Basil
Shallow Raised Beds
👉 Tip: A raised bed that’s at least 8 inches deep will comfortably handle these crops.
🥕 Medium-Rooted (10–12 inches)
These plants need more space but still grow well in most standard raised beds.
Carrots (short or round varieties like “Paris Market”)
Beets
Kale
Swiss chard
Cilantro
Parsley
👉 Tip: Go with a 12-inch raised bed or pot for these veggies and herbs to avoid stunted growth.
🍅 Deep-Rooted (18 inches or more)
These crops need space for strong, deep root systems.
Tomatoes
Peppers
Cucumbers
Potatoes
Full-size carrots
Rosemary & sage (woody herbs)
👉 Tip: If you’re growing deep-rooted crops in a container, choose one that’s at least 5 gallons and 18 inches deep.
Raised Bed Depth Recommendations
8–10 inches: Works for most leafy greens and herbs. Great for budget-friendly builds.
12–18 inches: Best all-around depth for a mix of veggies and herbs.
24 inches+: Ideal for root crops, tomatoes, and gardeners who want less bending (more ergonomic).
💡 Tip: Even if your bed is shallow, you can boost root health by using high-quality, loose soil so roots can spread without resistance.
Pot & Container Gardening Depths
Not everyone has space for raised beds, and that’s okay—pots and containers can be just as productive.
Small pots (6–8 inches): Herbs like basil, thyme, or chives.
Medium pots (10–12 inches): Lettuce, kale, or short-rooted carrots.
Large pots (18 inches+): Tomatoes, peppers, or rosemary.
👉 Always check that your pots have good drainage holes—too much water can rot roots, no matter the depth.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to raised bed or pot depth, the rule is simple: match the container to the plant’s roots. Leafy greens and herbs can thrive in shallow beds, but root vegetables and fruiting crops need deeper soil to reach their full potential.
By planning your raised bed or pot depth ahead of time, you’ll create the perfect growing environment—and enjoy healthier, more productive harvests all season long.