Keyhole kitchen gardens are one of the best layouts for growing herbs, fruits, and vegetables. These gardens maximize the amount of space available because the design uses nearly every square foot, all while creating a cozy, enclosed setup that’s truly a joy to tend.
One of my favorite parts of working in a keyhole garden is the way every turn offers a new spot to care for. The fun never stops—and that’s exactly how we like our kitchen gardens.
But before we dig into the world of keyhole gardens—yes, literally—let’s clear up a few things first.
At a Glance
- Keyhole gardens are a space-saving, efficient way to grow herbs, fruits, and vegetables—ideal for small backyards, side yards, or any garden space where maximizing every square foot matters.
- To create an effective keyhole garden layout, plan for a deep U-shape design, keep garden paths at least two feet wide for easy access, and define the area with clean, low-maintenance borders like gravel, mulch, or metal edging.
- There are plenty of materials you can use to build your keyhole garden bed, including natural cedar, classic brick, or modern Corten steel. We’ve also included photos of some of our favorite Gardenary keyhole garden designs to inspire your own garden project.
Kitchen Garden Styles Course
Regularly $47, this course is yours free for a limited time. Discover inspiring ideas to help you choose the kitchen garden layout that fits you—and your space—just right.
What Is a Keyhole Garden, Really?
So, what is a keyhole garden? Traditionally, a keyhole garden is a circular raised bed with one "slice of the pie" removed, allowing access to the center. This design sometimes features a composting basket at its core and is a brilliant solution for maximizing yield in a small space.
However, not every backyard or urban space is suited to a round layout. The Gardenary way adapts the keyhole garden concept into practical rectangular or square designs that still offer the same benefits: a central entry point, enclosed growing spaces, and efficient use of every inch.
Rectangular raised beds are also much easier to build with wood, which happens to be a favorite for many home gardeners. Not sure which type of wood to go with? We’ve got tips to help you decide. And if you’re curious about why raised beds are such a great choice, we’ve got that covered too.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s explore how to get your keyhole garden design right from the start.
Tips for Designing Your Own Keyhole Kitchen Garden
Make Sure You Have Enough Depth
To achieve that signature keyhole garden layout, your space needs to be deep enough to form a strong U shape. This is especially true for rectangular designs. Without adequate depth, the structure may lose both its appeal and functionality.
Aim for a space that’s at least 10 feet by 15 feet (3 meters by 4 meters). Position the garden along the edge of this area, with the pathway acting as your main access point into the garden.
Keep Entry Points at Least Two Feet Wide
Ease of movement is essential. Narrow paths can make tending frustrating, especially when carrying tools or harvest baskets. Keep all entryways into your keyhole garden at least two feet wide to ensure comfort and accessibility.
Create a Clear Border Between Garden and Yard
A defined edge around your keyhole garden bed helps organize the space and reduces maintenance. Without it, you may find yourself dealing with mud, encroaching weeds, or overgrown grass.
Before installation, remove all existing vegetation and create a clear border to separate your garden from the rest of the landscape. Metal edging is one of our favorite ways to do this, and we’ve got a guide to help you install it like a pro.
Examples of Keyhole Garden Designs
Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to design a wide variety of gardens. Here are a few of my favorite keyhole garden designs to inspire your own backyard project, whether you're just starting out or looking to upgrade an existing space.
Corten Steel Keyhole Garden
Set just outside a home's windows, this weathered steel keyhole garden turned an unused area into a flourishing and accessible space. The center bed supports herbs, vegetables, or seasonal blooms. Each bed stands two feet tall, sitting perfectly beneath window sills and maintaining a clean sightline.
Shop Our Corten Steel Raised Bed Container
This raised bed with a bottom is perfect for patios and balconies. Made from folded, not welded, Corten steel, it assembles easily by interlocking five sturdy panels.
Brick Keyhole Garden
This spacious garden uses durable brick beds to create a layout that blends beauty and longevity. The design includes access on all sides and a central seating area, offering over 200 square feet of growing space.
Compact Cedar Keyhole Garden
A great example of maximizing a tight space, this 10-foot by 10-foot keyhole garden includes 65 square feet of growing room. Cedar trellises on three sides provide vertical growing opportunities for tomatoes, cucumbers, beans, and peas.
Shop Our Cedar Raised Beds
Gardenary's new line of quality cedar garden beds are easy to assemble and will provide years of gardening enjoyment. Choose from numerous different garden sizes to fit your space.
Stained Cedar Keyhole Garden
This keyhole garden features cedar beds stained to match the surrounding fence, creating a unified look. With approximately 125 square feet of total space and 75 square feet of growing area, the garden is both efficient and elegant. Vertical panel trellises add structure and support for climbing crops.
Nicole Panel Trellis
These tall trellis panels are perfect for adding vertical growing space to raised beds or in-ground gardens—especially in small spaces. Support perennial favorites like blackberries, raspberries, or climbing roses with ease.
Each trellis includes our exclusive eBook, The Gardenary Guide to Growing Vertically, to help you grow more—naturally.
Why Go Keyhole?
If you're dreaming of a garden that feels like your own little hideaway but still delivers big on harvests, a keyhole kitchen garden might be just what you need. With a bit of planning, enough room to carve out that cozy U, and clearly defined paths, this layout can transform even an ordinary backyard into something magical.
Whether you go for brick, cedar, or the sleek look of Corten steel, a keyhole garden bed brings both beauty and order to your space. It’s efficient, easy to tend, and downright fun to work in. Once you have your layout in place, check out my vegetable garden planting plans. It’ll help you fill every square foot with intention.
Happy gardening!
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