How many plants in a 4x16 raised bed?

[Hilde]

I am building four 4x16 (1' deep) raised beds for tomatoes this year, and I want to put 16 plants in each bed. I will stake or cage them, they will not sprawl. I don't plan to prune, and I don't spray. Most of the plants will have approximately 6 hours of sun a day, some will have 8 or so. The soil will be a mixture of pro-mix and compost and some of the natural soil that I have (heavy clay with lots of worms). I will put mulch over a layer of wet newspapers and use a soaker hose to water.

Does 16 plants per bed sound about right? Could I put even more in or is 16 too many? What experiences do you have?


Thanks!

Hilde