Being able to raise your own herbs and vegetables is an activity that many people enjoy. The idea of having fresh produce to put on your plate can be a tantalizing thought for every homeowner. But it is not just homeowners who appreciate having the ability to plant and watch things grow and reap the benefits. Those who live in apartments and condos will also enjoy such experiences. But the lack of having available space for the job is often what prevents many from having a garden of their own. So, many have turned to creating an elevated garden bed.
What Is An Elevated Garden Bed?
Sometimes referred to as raised beds, elevated gardens are not just for those with limited space. Even experienced gardeners have found that they can overcome many challenges to growing their fresh vegetables by using them. They can be used as controlled experiments when it comes to testing how certain plants grow under certain soil conditions. They are also great for elderly gardeners who still love the hobby but can no longer do the back bending work it involves. By raising the garden to a level they are comfortable with, they can still have a space to cultivate and use in their free time.
The Location:
Before you begin creating an elevated garden bed you need to make some decisions first. One of the most important will be where you plan to place the garden. Depending on its size you'll need enough space for the plants to grow freely. You'll also need to make sure that the garden can get enough sun exposure to survive. Many raised gardens can be found indoors but they are successful because the plants they choose to use do not need a lot of direct sunlight. The best places for an elevated garden is on a patio, porch, or near a window. The success of your garden will depend largely on the location and the plants you choose.
The Size:
Another factor that needs to be considered before you start building your new garden is the size. The bed should be wide enough to support the plants at maturity but still small enough to be reached from either side. You also have to decide on the height. This will depend largely on your personal circumstances. The average height of an elevated bed is about 2' but it is possible to go higher. Consider who will be using it and what their abilities are. This will determine just how high the bed should be. The depth of the bed should be determined by the kind of plants you plan to grow.
There are countless of advantages for those who decide that creating an elevated garden bed is the right thing to do. Whether you're a novice at growing things or you're an expert, having fresh vegetables on your plate, fresh herbs to spice up your dishes, or even fresh flowers to beautify your home are just the beginning. It is a hobby that is addictive and can be done in almost any climate, once you start there's no telling how many wonderful things you'll be able to enjoy from your garden.