Raised garden beds are garden beds or plots that are raised from the ground by means of a containment system such as a wooden frame. They are popular gardening devices or designs that simplify many of the challenges of gardening.

Features

A raised garden bed is full of soil, plants and other materials. Mixed selected soil is typically added to the bed, to create higher soil quality in the bed than the ground around it. Drainage systems may be installed but are often naturally occurring.

Accessibility

Raised garden beds are accessible and convenient. They are easier to reach than ground level beds, and require less bending, thereby reducing strain to the back or joints.

Types

There are many types of raised garden beds. Wide rectangular boxes are the most common, consisting of a basic frame. Some are built directly into the ground, whereas as others are elevated on legs or blocks.

Materials

The materials used for raised garden beds vary from woods such as cedar to brick, stone and synthetic materials like vinyl. The purpose and function of the bed, its size, types of plants and the climate are factors that may affect material choice.

Advantages

Raised garden beds help to block out bugs, offer sound soil drainage, control the spread and growth of plants and are typically unaffected by ground weeds. They can be attractive landscape features and help to organize and restrict plant activity. In colder months, they can be covered to extend the life of plants.

Construction

Most raised garden beds are made by gardeners themselves. They can be built by hand, assembled from a package or purchased ready-made.

Source:

Earth Easy: Garden Beds

Popular Mechanics: How To Build and Install Raised Garden Beds