Raised garden beds are a wonderful tool for extending the growing season, controlling erosion, enhancing soil, and protecting plants from underground pests. They also provide a place to recycle water and give more control over the quality of the soil. Whether you want to grow vegetables, herbs, or flowers, you can design a raised bed garden that works for you.

The most important factor when building a raised bed is to build a raised bed that is at least six inches tall and three to four feet wide. This will allow for easier access to the center of the bed. You can build a raised bed by using tractor-drawn implements or hand tools.  These kits are durable and have great reviews.

In addition to keeping the soil from being compacted, a raised bed helps to aerate it. It also helps to deter rabbits, slugs, and other invasive species, which are more likely to invade a flat bed. Raised garden beds can be made of any material, including concrete, wood, plastic, and more. For this reason, you should be aware of the materials you choose and the risks associated with them.

Before you start construction, you should make sure the area where your bed will be located is well-drained. If it is not, it will be more difficult for your plant to survive. To help, you can spread a layer of mulch at the base of your raised bed. Straw is especially effective at retaining moisture and preventing weeds.

Once the soil has been prepared, you can fill your raised bed with compost or manure. You should also incorporate equal amounts of coarse sand and topsoil. Be sure to keep the pH of your compost at between 7.2 and 7.8. Also, check the composition of your compost and topsoil to ensure it has no toxins.

A raised garden bed will help your vegetables and herbs to thrive. Because your plants are higher above the ground, they will be able to absorb more nutrients. However, you will need to replenish your compost and topsoil each fall. During the growing season, you will also have to add fresh organic matter.

When you are ready to plant your garden, you can use a rake to smooth out the beds. If you have a drip irrigation system installed, you can install it in the raised bed. Lastly, you can use landscape fabric or rocks to edging the bed. Using these materials will help you avoid having to buy expensive edging.

Regardless of the type of bed you have, you will need a way to get into the bed. Some people prefer to use a livestock trough, which can be built with a hole for drainage. Others have found that railroad ties work well. Other options include cement blocks and stones. Whatever material you choose, you will have to install a basket to hold your plants.