[adsense align="alignright"][adsense align="alignright"]Growing plants in raised garden beds has many advantages related to ease of maintenance as well as promoting robust growth. This growing method is good for water drainage, provides a barrier against garden pests, eliminates surface compaction and reduces weed growth. Soil does not wash away as easily during a storm and some gardeners find they can plant earlier in the year.
Working on raised gardens is less stressful on back muscles. Some beds are even strong enough to support the weight of the gardener sitting on them while working.
Unlike a planter, a raised bed does not have a bottom. Roots can reach into the soil for the nutrients they need. These items are available for sale in most garden stores but they are easy enough to build at home.
Wood raised garden beds are popular but it is important to choose a wood that will stand up to the elements and is not susceptible to damage by insects. Some wood is treated with chemicals to repel bugs.
Some people prefer the look and durability of stone raised garden beds. Stone is relatively indestructible and will hold up well outdoors. The one downside is the expense and the fact that building the structure requires a certain amount of knowledge and expertise. The average gardener may find this project to be too big to handle alone.
Metal raised garden beds offer another option for home gardeners and they can be made with scrap. Galvanized metal is attractive and sturdy but is more expensive and is not biodegradable. Other material options include aluminum, sheet metal and copper. These beds can be constructed with four sheets of metal and galvanized brackets to hold them together.
Gardeners on a budget can choose plastic garden beds. These inexpensive beds are sometimes made of composite lumber consisting of recycled plastic. This material is a suitable choice for those people who want something that is attractive but affordable.
Concrete raised garden beds are durable but have several drawbacks including high cost and weight. Drainage is crucial with this type of bed because concrete will absorb the moisture from the soil. These beds are difficult to build but prefabricated beds can be dropped into place with no need for mortar.
Gardeners can cover raised bed with plastic to keep the soil warm and clean. Cocoa mulch smells good and will repel insects but has a tendency to mold if kept in a warm and damp environment.
