Four-year crop rotation plan for raised beds

Crop rotation prevents the buildup of soil-borne diseases and pests that target specific plant families, prevents nutrient depletion from repeated heavy feeding, and maintains soil balance. Even in small raised bed gardens, a basic rotation is highly beneficial. Divide crops into 4 family groups and rotate each group to a different bed (or section of bed) each year. Year 1: Legumes (beans, peas) - these fix nitrogen, enriching the soil. Year 2: Leafy greens and brassicas (lettuce, kale, broccoli, cabbage) - heavy nitrogen users that benefit from the previous year's nitrogen fixation. Year 3: Root crops (carrots, beets, radishes, onions) - lighter feeders that improve soil aeration with their roots. Year 4: Fruiting crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash, cucumbers) - heavy feeders that thrive in well-balanced, rested soil. Then repeat the cycle. Critical rule: never plant the same family in the same spot for at least 3 years. Tomatoes and potatoes are the same family (Solanaceae); so are peppers and eggplant. Rotating these prevents late blight, early blight, verticillium wilt, and nematode buildup. Keep a simple garden map or journal noting what was planted where each year.