Buying a raised bed: 4 tips that beginners should consider
A raised bed is practical and easy on the back and offers ideal growing conditions for flowers, vegetables, fruit and herbs. You should consider a few things to ensure it stays that way.
Buy a raised bed, set it up and plant – that’s it? Unfortunately, it’s not that easy. Because even before you put the first plants into the soil, there are a few things to consider. But what exactly? We have four helpful tips that will make it easier for you to get started and enjoy an abundant harvest.
Buying a raised bed: 4 tips that beginners should consider:
- The material:
Whether plastic, metal, stone or wood, raised beds are available in various designs; of course, personal taste plays a significant role. But that’s not all you should consider.
Raised beds made of plastic are practical but can also release dangerous substances into the soil, and the same goes for tires and cinderblocks.
It is, therefore, best to ask yourself the following questions before making a purchase:
- How long do I want some of the raised beds?
- How vital is the organic or health factor to me?
- Is a smaller model enough to start with, or does it have to be a professional kit right away?
- Where is the garden bed to be set up?
The most popular materials for a raised bed are wood and stone, and the latter makes it indestructible. Such a raised stone bed can last for several decades with good care. And, very important: Never save on the price of a wooden raised bed. Most rookie gardeners learn this lesson only after gaining experience in container gardening.
- The underground:
In order not to experience any nasty surprises, the raised bed should ideally be on the ground. Irrigation water and rainwater can thus drain off unhindered and beneficial organisms such as earthworms can reach the interior. If this is not the case, the raised bed threatens to rot.
If you want to place your planter box on a sealed floor, remember to allow air circulation between the bed and the floor.
- The bed’s height:
The raised bed is a great solution, especially for hobby gardeners with back problems. An elevation of 75 cm is usually ideal. But be careful: when you buy, always keep in mind which types of vegetables or flowers you want to plant in the container. All herbs and most vegetables are happy with a planting depth of 23 cm. Certain root vegetables require more growing depth than others. For carrots to thrive, you should have at least 30 cm of space underneath.
- The planter’s location:
Think ahead of time about what you want to plant in your raised bed, then find the best place for it and know the size you need. For example, some plants prefer full sun, while others love a shady spot. Knowing beforehand how much space you have available on the terrace, balcony, or garden is advantageous and what you intend to grow.