The calculator places pallets on a grid inside the usable garden area.
Columns and rows are fitted using pallet size, gaps, and optional aisles.
Each coordinate is the top-left corner: X = Edge + StartX, Y = Edge + StartY. With stagger on, every other row adds an X offset.
- Measure your garden length and width in one unit.
- Enter pallet size, then choose rotation if needed.
- Set edge clearance for borders, hoses, or fences.
- Add gaps for airflow, access, or plant growth space.
- Use aisles every few rows/columns for walking lanes.
- Calculate, then download CSV or PDF for onsite marking.
Sample inputs and a shortened output preview.
| Garden (L×W) | Pallet (L×W) | Edge | Gaps (X,Y) | Aisle rule | Rows×Cols | First coordinate (X,Y) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6.00×3.00 m | 1.20×1.00 m | 0.20 m | 0.10, 0.10 | Off | 2×4 | (0.20, 0.20) |
| 20.00×10.00 ft | 4.00×3.30 ft | 0.50 ft | 0.25, 0.25 | Every 3 cols, 2.0 ft aisle | 2×4 | (0.50, 0.50) |
Accurate pallet coordinates depend on consistent measuring and a stable reference edge. Start by confirming the garden rectangle with two diagonals; if both match, your corners are square. Use a tape line or chalk line to mark the X axis along the garden length, then measure Y offsets perpendicular to it. Keep all inputs in one unit and record real pallet sizes, not nominal values. Weathered pallets can vary by several millimeters, which compounds across multiple columns.
Spacing, airflow, and maintenance access
Spacing values create deliberate gaps for airflow, irrigation routing, and tool clearance. A small gap helps prevent moisture buildup near pallet edges and reduces splashback onto foliage. For crops needing frequent harvesting, allocate wider lanes using aisle rules rather than large gaps everywhere. Aisles placed every few rows or columns keep walking paths consistent while preserving density in the growing area.
Orientation decisions for better fit
Rotation swaps pallet length and width, changing how many fit along each axis. If your garden is narrow, rotating can increase column count while keeping rows stable. Compare placed pallets for both orientations and choose the one that leaves practical leftover margins. Center alignment is useful when you want balanced border space for edging, drip manifolds, or perimeter planting.
Staggered rows for improved workflow
Staggering offsets every other row along X to open sight lines and reduce repeated foot traffic in the same lane. A common offset is half a pallet length, but smaller offsets can align corners with irrigation emitters. If the offset pushes a pallet beyond usable length, that pallet is skipped to protect clearances. Review the placed count to confirm the intended density.
Export files for field setup
The CSV export lists every pallet number with row, column, and top‑left coordinates for layout marking. Use it to create stake labels or a printed checklist for installation. The PDF export provides a quick summary and a preview of early positions for rapid reference on site. For full lists, rely on the CSV for complete data.
What do the X and Y coordinates represent?
X is the distance from the left edge after clearance, along garden length. Y is the distance from the top edge after clearance, along garden width. Each coordinate points to the pallet’s top-left corner.
Why does the placed pallet count change with staggering?
Staggering shifts alternate rows. If an offset causes a pallet to extend beyond the usable length, that pallet is omitted. This prevents overlap and keeps edge clearance intact, which can reduce the final count.
How should I choose edge clearance?
Use enough clearance for edging, fence gaps, hoses, and turning space. In many gardens, 0.15–0.30 m works well. Increase it if you need a perimeter path or want space for trellises.
When should I add aisles instead of larger gaps?
Add aisles when you want predictable walking lanes without sacrificing density everywhere. Larger gaps apply across every pallet. Aisles inserted every few rows or columns concentrate access space where it is most useful.
Does rotation affect numbering and start corner?
Rotation only changes pallet dimensions used for fitting. Numbering and the start corner control the sequence and direction of placement. Use them to match your real installation pattern and labeling plan.
Can I use this for irregular garden shapes?
This tool assumes a rectangular area. For irregular shapes, measure the largest safe rectangle inside your space, then reserve remaining areas for paths, compost, or tool storage. Validate on site with a quick tape layout.