Which Direction to Orientate Vegetable Rows

My daughter and I just tilled a new garden and are very much new to this. The garden is 34x34 and is in the open with all sun exposure. My question is which direction is best for rows if there is one?

Many gardeners prefer to plant their rows in a north to south direction. This planting orientation maximizes the light reaching all the plants in the garden by minimizing shade cast by one row of plants onto the next. With a full sun location it is probably not that critical. You can use shade cast by taller plants to your advantage. I often plant cool season crops like lettuce and radishes next to or in between the taller vegetables. The shade cast by the taller plants helps keep the soil cooler, extends the season and reduces bitterness of these cool weather vegetables. And if you find you have extra produce from your large garden you can share it with hungry in the community. Join the efforts of gardeners around the world as a we plant a row and share the harvest with the hungry in our community. Visit GardenComm.org/PAR for information on how to donate your extra produce. It’s easy, fun and a good cause.

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