How to Dig Rows for Gardening

Mark out the outer edges of the entire garden area. Measure the length and width so you are able to space out the rows correctly.

Break up the soil several inches deep to make the soil easier to dig and better for seed growth. Add compost and work the soil so the compost mixes in with the existing soil.

Identify the types of items you will plant in the garden. Read the specific instructions to determine spacing for the plants to properly grow. For vegetables that grow outward like cucumbers, peas and certain beans, consider adding trellises to the rows so the plants grow up instead of out. This saves you room and allows you to dig rows closer together.

Draw the garden area on a piece of grid paper using the measurements you took. Draw in the rows with each item you're planting in the rows labeled. Review the spacing between rows to ensure you allowed for enough area for each type of plant.

Place a wooden stake at both ends of each row as you laid out in the drawing. Tie a piece of string between the stakes to mark the rows so you are able to dig straight rows.

Dig a trench along the string line using a garden hoe. Determine the depth of the row based on the type of vegetables you are growing there. For example, vegetables with small seeds, like carrots and lettuce, only need a 1/2-inch deep trench, while larger seeds, like corn, need a 1 1/2- to 2-inch trench.