How does proper spacing of plants affect garden health?

Proper spacing of plants significantly contributes to garden health primarily by improving air circulation. When plants are spaced adequately apart, it allows air to flow freely between them, reducing humidity levels around the foliage. This decrease in humidity can limit the development and spread of fungal diseases, which thrive in moist environments. Improved air circulation also promotes faster drying of leaves after rain or watering, further helping to mitigate disease risks.

While overcrowding can lead to stunted growth and competitive issues amongst plants, which might hint at hindering growth, the key aspect of garden health is the prevention of disease through good air circulation. Additionally, while insufficient space may decrease sunlight exposure and complicate watering, these factors are secondary to the direct impact on plant health that spacing provides through increased air flow. This makes proper spacing a foundational practice in creating a thriving garden ecosystem.