Instead of growing plants in the ground, more gardeners are switching to raised beds. This involves growing plants inside soil in elevated wooden crate-like structures. What are the benefits of raised plant beds? This post explores a few different advantages.
The benefits of raised beds
Better drainage
A major reason many avid gardeners choose raised beds is for better drainage. In areas with clay soil and a lot of rain, traditional plant beds can become prone to waterlogging. Raised garden beds offer more space for water to filtrate through and you can use any soil that you want in them.
Reduced weeds
Raised beds also tend to get less weeds. Seeds from neighbouring plants are less likely to find their way into a raised bed because of their elevated position. They’re particularly effective for keeping your shrubs away from invasive plants like knotweed and mint. Landscape fabric will prevent weeds from getting in underneath.
Fewer pests
While raised beds aren’t pest-proof, elevating your beds does mean that pests have to travel further to reach your plants. Creatures like snails and slugs are also more likely to be picked off by birds while travelling up the wooden sides of a raised bed.
Less soil compaction
Regular plant beds get trod on a lot while attending to them, which can increase the chance of soil becoming compacted. Because you don’t have to walk on raised beds, they tend to experience soil compaction less frequently.
Easier access
Raised beds can be built as low or as high as you desire. If you have mobility issues or experience back pain, it may be possible to build raised beds that you can access while standing for easier access.
How to build raised beds
To build a raised bed, start by selecting your materials. Untreated lumber like cedar and redwood boards are ideal as they won’t contain any chemicals that could leach into the soil. You’ll also need some landscape fabric for the base and some soil to fill it with.
Measure and mark out how large you want your raised bed to be (try to avoid anything wider than 4ft so that you can easily reach into the centre without having to step onto the bed). Cut your lumber boards to length using a circular saw, lay them out on the ground and then use a spirit level to ensure they’re even.
You’ll want to secure the posts together using galvanized screws. To prevent the boards from splitting, drill pilot holes into the boards. Additional power tools like these MAKITA impact drivers can make this task quicker and more strain-free – especially if you’re using a dense wood or thick boards.
Once the frame is built, line the bottom of it with landscape fabric (to prevent weeds getting in) and fill it with soil. Consider using some compost at the bottom and a layer of topsoil at the top.
There are raised bed kits that you can buy that can make assembly easier, however making your own raised bed gives you more freedom when it comes to shape and size.
Conclusion
Raised garden beds can improve drainage, restrict weeds, reduce pests, lessen soil compaction and improve accessibility. They are worthwhile installing if you are trying to grow fussy plants or live in an area with poor soil quality.
