Weather conditions in many places make it difficult to put in a garden. Dry conditions, wet weather, too much sun, not enough sun, are all problems faces somewhere in the country. Very few placed have ideal conditions year round, so we have to look for an advantage to extend the growing season in our area. One approach that works to mitigate many of these problems are raised garden beds.
What are some advantages of gardening in raised beds? Is it worth the effort?
Aesthetics: Everyone know that at some time of the year gardens start to look a little tired. But a raised garden keeps a much more tidy look to it. In addition, the pathways between the beds lend more definition to the plants.
Weeds Raised beds do a better job of keeping out aggressive plants like grasses and creeping vines. They also significantly reduce the area that needs to be weeded in the first place. Less work to keep weeded all around.
Watering: Since the plants are confined to the smaller beds, there is less overall watering required. And since the beds are raised , irrigation equipment can be installed without worry of hitting it with a lawn mower or a tiller. The water is confined to the bed, and that reduces the week growth around the plants as well. And if you are in a poorly drained area, the raised bed will reduced the pooling and stagnant water problems as well.
Access: Since the bed is raised, not as much stooping or bending is needed when you are planting, weeding, or picking your crops. It's great on the back, especially for older gardeners. Of course if you like to use a tiller this is not as easy with a raised garden bed.
