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What Is Raised Bed Gardening?


Raised bed gardening is the practice of raising a garden in beds that are within an above ground structure. Many people use landscaping timbers to build beds which are three or four feet above the ground. Another good item to make the beds with is concrete blocks. The soil is then placed inside of the structure and often landscaping plastic is used in the bottom of the structure to prevent the growth of weeds.

One of the reasons raised bed gardening is so popular is because you can plant the plants closer together and still have a high yield. These gardens are usually narrow enough for you to be able to work the beds without needing any large equipment such as tillers or plows. The soil in these beds is usually loose because there is not foot traffic inside the beds. The loose soil allows the roots to grow deeper and stronger because is offers better penetration.

Mixing natural compost with a high quality potting soil will provide a rich and healthy environment for plants to grow and thrive in. You can generally plant your plants closer together in a raised bed garden which will serve two purposes. Once the plants get large enough they will form a natural moisture conservation system. The soil will stay moist longer and the shade from the plants will help to retard the growth of unwanted weeds. Even though you plant your plants closer to each other you will still have high yields which will compare to those in a regular garden.

The Benefits Of Raised Bed Gardening

Raised bed gardening has many benefits that regular gardening does not have. The soil which is used in raised bed gardening is usually richer than the soil of a regular garden. You wont have to worry about erosion since the garden is enclosed. Tending to the garden is usually easier because you have greater control over weeds and unwanted grass.

You will probably be required to water the beds since most areas do not receive enough regular rain to keep them moist. The good thing is it does not take as much water since you are watering an enclosed area.

Raised bed gardening can provide high yields which are easier to harvest because of the height difference from the ground. This is also a good way to try your hand at organic gardening since the potting soil and compost will provide much needed nutrients. Netting can be applied to help ward off unwanted pests.

People who do not have a large area of land can benefit from raised bed gardening as well as those who are not able to work in the more traditional type garden. This type gardening can be fun and fruitful for the entire family.