Raised Bed Gardens

A Raised Bed Garden is a method used by many gardeners. The soil warms quicker, you can plant earlier in the season, and the soil remains warmer, bringing the crop to earlier maturity. No matter whether you are planting vegetables, herbs or flowers, a raised bed garden is always a good option to consider.

A raised bed makes it easier to create an area of fertile, well-drained soil. This is especially beneficial where soil is poor and drainage is less than adequate. Since you do not have to walk in the bed to harvest or cultivate, raised beds do not require the usual space between rows. Water, air and even the roots have difficulty moving through soil that has been compressed by tractors, tillers and human feet. This makes a raised bed garden a great option since soil compaction can reduce crop yields by up to 50 percent.

A raised bed garden also elevates plants to a more comfortable and convenient working level, making them easier to tend and enjoy. They confine soil, dead leaves and other debris within their borders, making them low-maintenance. Raised beds are especially convenient for vegetable or flower cutting gardens.

Raised beds make pest and weed control much easier as well. To keep burrowing rodents out of your garden, line the bottom of the bed with poultry wire or hardware cloth. You can also discourage rabbits and groundhogs by placing a low fence around the bed. Control weeds more efficiently and economically with a plastic weed barrior. One roll will cover the narrow width of the bed, saving you money.

The best time to begin building a raised bed garden is during the fall or winter, while other gardening projects are on hold. By the time spring arrives, the soil will be settled into place and you will be ready to start planting.

Create your raised beds narrow enough to work from the sides and set them up in north/south orientation to allow the maximum direct sunlight. Water, fertilizer, compost, mulch, etc. can be applied more carefully because they only need to be applied to the garden beds.