Originally posted by bean: Raised beds can be done a couple of different ways: constructed sides which you build or piling dirt and suing them year after year.
The advantages are pretty cool. One is weed control from shading out growth. After a few times using them your weed count will go way down. You also get better root depth which causes more produce. Also, keeps moisture in during the hot months. Deeper roots + more moisture = better produce. You can get alot of plants in a raised bed and different kins too. You just have to make sure they are compatable. You can also concentrate on compost in that area. There are other reason they are good too.
I do some raised beds for some things but not on all. You can build a raised bed in your backyard if you are in the city and have limited space.
Bryan - try it and I bet you get hooked. If you have kids, go build one and do it with your kids. Luke usually knows more about my garden than I do.
Unfortunately I don't have any children but mostly wanted to do it just for something to do and to save some money on produce.... All I plant is tomatoes and bell peppers....
I guess another question would be why not just plant them in the ground instead of using a raised bed? Also how tall should they be?
