With the changing climate and challenges being faced by the farming industry, raised garden beds or raised bed gardens are getting a lot of attention. Thanks to the convenience and great efficiency they have, they are being chosen more and more not just by a lot of professional farmers, but so as by those who don’t have designated planting areas in urban areas.
A raised bed gardening is a form of gardening that uses enclosed soil in a containment unit that usually has a four-foot-wide space. This containment allows the soil to be raised above the ground or the surrounding soil and stabilizes the temperature of the soil. Also, this prevents the roots of the plants from being stepped on which greatly affects the growth of plants.
With its size, plants are planted much closer together, but with sufficient space that is enough to avoid leaves from touching each other once the plants are fully grown. This encourages better retention of moisture in soil and suppression of weed growth.
With all these advantages and the right process of gardening, the planting season of the plants in the raised garden beds would be extended.
Table of Contents
Types of Raised Garden Beds
Building a raised garden bed is truly an ideal thing for those who aspire to grow their own plants at home. However, knowing the types of raised bed gardens is a must if you want to determine which one would suit you the best.
Containerized Raised Beds
If you want to know how to make a raised garden bed of this type. Just keep in mind to give it walls that are somewhere 10 to 27 inches high. This will give you a waist-high raised garden bed plan. The main purpose of this type of raised bed is to protect the plants in places where there is usually a high rate of traffic. This could prevent children and animals from destroying the corps which translates to better preservation of the plants. Furthermore, given the height of its walls, the soil wouldn’t heat up fast which could cause stress among plants.
Raised Ground Beds
This is the simplest of all types of beds, making it the easiest DIY raised garden bed for anyone. Here, you won’t need any other materials except for additional soil. Just bring in additional soil and mold your bed or dig and get from the pathways between the beds you are about to make. While this offers great convenience and zero cost, this offers poor protection for your crops especially when it comes to the draining of excess water and possible destruction from stray animals.
Supported Raised Beds
This bed provides you the things missing in the raised ground beds. In this one, you “edge” your bed by providing a barrier through the use of frames made from stone, brick, wood, or plastic. The materials set apart the bed from the other parts of the garden or lawn
Raised Garden Plans
There are different types of raised garden bed plans and understanding each of them is the best way to learn what’s best for your needs. With this, here are some of the most fundamental raised bed garden plans that you might want to consider in your next garden project.
2x2 Raised Planter
Given its size, it can fit in any type of garden, even those gardens that have limited spaces. With this, you can use it for flowers and herbs near your window where you could easily access them.
Herb Wheel Planter
This raised garden bed idea is best for those who prefer doing DIY raised beds. In this, you get a bed that is hexagon in shape and has six cavities where you could put your plants. While this offers a great aesthetic for your garden, keep in mind that it will give you a smaller space to plant.
Multi-Level or Tiered Garden Bed
This type of raised garden bed gives you all the convenience you need for your plants. This also allows a better environment for your crops as you offer excellent protection from stray animals and the heat of the sun. Given its construction that is made of multiple tiers, you have the option to provide cool shade to cool-season plants (lower tiers) or expose summer plants in the sunlight (upper tiers).
Vertical Garden
Just like the raised garden bed plan of multi-level garden beds, this one also allows you to plant vertically. This can be installed inside homes by attaching the container to the walls. With this, you can plant all kinds of herbs of your choice inside your homes, giving you easy access to all of them whenever you need them.
Cinder Block Raised Bed
Of all raised garden bed ideas, this one is one of the simplest. Compared to the previous plans that would require measurement and cutting of woods and other materials, you can easily do this by arranging cinder blocks on a flat surface and putting your raised garden bed soil inside the space made by the blocks.
Top 5 Best Raised Garden Beds
While opting for a DIY raised garden bed is a good idea, it is more doable to get ready-made raised garden beds. This would save you from the intricate task of preparing and building a raised garden bed.
And with all the available raised garden bed kits out there that come with all the essentials you need in your gardening tasks, growing your crops will certainly be a picnic.
Considering the stated facts above, we consulted professionals in the farming industry to round up the five best raised bed gardens in the market. Underscoring their important features and qualities, we made a comprehensive review and verdict to better give you a clear vision of what you should get for your garden.
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Best Raised Garden Beds Comparison & Rating
Raised Garden Beds | Features |
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1. KETER Urban Bloomer 12.7 Gallon Raised Garden Bed
Specifications:
97% Overall
Brand | |
Materials | Polypropylene, Resin |
Color | Dark Gray |
Dimensions | 32.3 x 14.7 x 30.7 inches |
96%
quality
99%
features
97%
Convenience
95%
durability
Pros:
- Comes with an easy-to-read water gauge informing users when to add moisture to the plants.
- Gives you full control over the water system of the plants through its drainage system that can be easily opened and closed.
- Has a simple assembly with easy-to-follow instructions.
- Fits anywhere and can be easily transported from one place to another.
- Offers a bottom shelf for the storage of your gardening tools or pots of plants.
- The polypropylene, resin materials are UV-protected which prevents the fading of its color.
- Comes with a detachable seed-sprouting tray for neat cultivation of your seeds and seedlings.
Cons:
- The drainage spout plug is just made of rubber, which could cause leaks.
- Not very spacious and could only accommodate a small number of plants.
Final Take:
The KETER Urban Bloomer addresses one of the major concerns commonly being faced by farmers: the water system. Besides the fact that it comes with a controllable drainage system, it also comes with a water reservoir that prevents root decay and overwatering. This serves as a great feature for those unskilled individuals that need aid in growing their plants. It is also worth denoting that it has just the right height and ergonomic construction, which saves you from constantly crouching or kneeling while doing your gardening tasks.
2. VIVOSUN Vertical Raised Garden Bed
Specifications:
96% Overall
Brand | VIVOSUN |
Materials | high-quality galvanized steel, PP plastic |
Weight | 22.8 pounds |
Dimensions | 32.6 x 26.8 x 8.3 inches |
94%
quality
95%
features
98%
Convenience
96%
durability
Pros:
- While occupying a small footprint, it provides ample space to plant your plants vertically using its five tiers of containers.
- Designed with eight holes to assure there is an effective water drainage system.
- Easy assembly
- Four-foot in height which allows you to avoid bending just to water your plants.
- Supported by a lightweight galvanized steel frame that is rust-resistant and durable.
Cons:
- Out of eight holes in each container, only two of them are pre-opened. Thus, you need to open the rest of the holes yourself according to your preference in your watering system.
- The container material is made of PP plastic and though it is safe, it is not thick enough. Continuously exposing it to direct sunlight can affect its product life.
Final Take:
This vertical garden bed is ideal for those who have no limited space in their homes. It saves you horizontal spaces while allowing you to plant crops on your porch or even inside your house. It is supported by a well-constructed, stable frame that holds the containers. Due to its tier-type construction and the effective drainage system, you can simply water the topmost tier and let the excess amount of water flow down to the last tier.
3. HEGEMONE Co. Tiered Raised Elevated Garden Bed Planter Box
Specifications:
95% Overall
Brand | HEGEMONE Co. |
Material | Aluminum |
Weight | 47.3 pounds |
Dimensions | 47.25 x 31.5 x 25 inches |
97%
quality
95%
features
94%
Convenience
94%
durability
Pros:
- A three-tier elevated garden bed that allows you to plant in three levels.
- Made of heavy-duty aluminum that resists rust, compared to wood or other conventional metals that could cause toxicity.
- 100% eco-friendly material that doesn't leach harmful chemicals nor contaminate the soil itself.
- The wall of the bed offers premium protection against rodents, termites, and critters.
- Offers a screw-less construction, making it an ideal and best option for anyone.
Cons:
- Though it is screw-less, the instructional manual is kind of vague making the assembly a bit of a challenge.
- Kind of small compared to the advertised image, but can still cater to a considerable number of plants per tier.
Final Take:
The HEGEMONE Co. is the best option for those who don’t just want to have an organized garden, but so as for those who are looking for a garden bed that serves class and beauty. Nonetheless, beyond the appealing aesthetic of this raised garden bed, it also comes with excellent durability, thanks to its high-grade aluminum metal that will last for years. Given its construction, you can easily plant your crops in order, be it regular vegetables, flowers, or herbs.
4. Taleco Gear Wooden Raised Garden Bed
Specifications:
94% Overall
Brand | Taleco Gear |
Materials | Natural Solid Fir Wood, Steel |
Weight | 23.2 pounds |
Dimensions | 33.94 x 11.1 x 5.67 inches |
95%
quality
93%
features
93%
Convenience
96%
durability
Pros:
- Comes with 16 wooden boards and 12 steel corner brackets
- The steel corner brackets are thick enough to withstand years of use and to resist rust.
- By joining the boards, you’ll have ample space to grow your crops and it gives you the liberty to adjust the size of the bed depending on what you prefer.
- The boards are made of solid fir wood that is purely natural and smooth.
- The assembly manual and all the hardware pieces you need are included.
Cons:
- Only ideal for those who have lawns and gardens with flat surfaces.
Final Take:
The Taleco Gear Wooden Raised Garden Bed allows easy construction through the help of its 16 detachable wooden boards. You can easily shape the bed according to your preferred shapes using the 12 steel corner brackets that come with the boards. It is also suggested for those who are concerned about the materials of their raised garden bed frames. Since it is free from harmful chemicals or additives, you can definitely trust that it will not affect the quality of your crops.
5. Infinite Cedar Raised Bed Garden
Specifications:
94% Overall
Brand | |
Material | Cedar |
Weight | 72 x 36 x 11 inches |
Dimensions | 34 pounds |
96%
quality
91%
features
92%
Convenience
97%
durability
Pros:
- Made of thick Western red cedar boards that are sturdy enough to resist the natural rotting process of woods for years.
- The assembly is very easy as no tools are required; Easy assembly as the woods are designed to fit perfectly to each other.
- The blocks are smooth which prevents accidents like splinters.
- 100% guaranteed that there is no chemical treatment applied in the wood boards.
- Offers bigger space to plant your crops.
Cons:
- Only ideal for those who have lawns and gardens with flat surfaces.
- Not suggested for lawns or gardens with limited spaces.
Final Take:
Since building a raised garden bed can be a bit tricky, having this Infinite Cedar Raised Bed Garden will save you a lot of time screwing and drilling holes in your DIY raised garden bed. Working like a puzzle, the durable, thick boards can be easily assembled as they don’t need screws or nails to attach them. The brilliant construction of boards allows them to hold the raised garden bed soil in place. With its size, you'll have sufficient space to have your plants while the height of the board is good enough to hold a considerable amount of soil.
Best Raised Garden Beds - Buyer's Guide
setting
If you have a wide garden or lawn at home, you can definitely choose any type of raised garden bed. However, if you are someone from the city living in an apartment with nothing but a small porch, you can have the containerized raised beds where you could plant vertically.
size
Always determine the size of the raised beds you need. This would depend on the number of plants you intend to grow. Remember that it is not ideal to plant crops too close to each other as they could affect the growth of the plants. With this, avoid picking beds that are too small if you want to grow a great number of sprouts.
Materials
The materials of the raised beds should be considered not just for the durability they bring, but so as for the safety they can offer. Currently, there are concerns regarding pressure-treated timbers. Keep in mind that using chromated copper arsenate to preserve timber can be dangerous as it can leach into the soil. So, avoid getting beds that are treated. Luckily, all the ones above are made from safe materials that won’t affect the quality of your raised garden bed soil.
features
The features of the raised garden beds are something you should also consider. While the conventional ones offer little features, there are also modern raised beds that could offer you a multitude of features that would aid you in your garden tasks.
price
While there is a huge need to consider the mentioned above, it is also a must to consider the price of the item you’re going to choose. Keep in mind that not all high-priced raised garden beds would give you the qualities you need and not all cheap ones would provide you a great deal. So, find the one that fits your preferences and comes at the most reasonable price.
Best Raised Garden Beds - FAQs
What are the benefits of using a raised garden bed?
Besides the protection it could provide to the plants against stray animals, it could also aid in better management of roots and temperature of the soil. Raised bed gardens also extend the planting season and allow better control over weeds.
Are raised bed gardens worth it?
Yes, they are. Due to the unique construction of raised bed gardens, the soil warms up more quickly in the spring and drains better. This translates to faster and better growth of plants that are delicate and seasonal.
What should I put on the bottom of the raised garden bed?
You can put anything organic and generally safe and healthy for plants. This could include dry leaves, plant trimmings, and even grass clippings. This would serve as a part of the soil’s organic content that can enhance its quality.
How deep should my raised bed garden be?
The depth of your raised bed garden should depend on the plant you are going to have. Generally, they should be eight to 12 inches deep. This depth allows the average speed of water draining. However, if your plant needs soil that is somehow dry, you can get deeper up to 10 18 inches.
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
Raised garden beds, also known as raised bed gardens, are gaining popularity due to the changing climate and challenges faced by the farming industry. They offer convenience and efficiency, making them a preferred choice not only for professional farmers but also for urban dwellers without designated planting areas.
Raised bed gardening involves using enclosed soil in a containment unit, typically with a four-foot-wide space. This containment allows the soil to be raised above the ground or surrounding soil, stabilizing the temperature and preventing the roots of plants from being stepped on, which can hinder growth.
There are several advantages to using raised garden beds. First, the close proximity of plants encourages better moisture retention in the soil and suppresses weed growth. Additionally, raised beds provide protection for plants in areas with high rates of traffic, preventing damage from children and animals.
Now let's discuss the different types of raised garden beds mentioned in the article:
Types of Raised Garden Beds
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Containerized Raised Beds: These raised beds have walls that are typically 10 to 27 inches high, creating a waist-high gardening experience. They are designed to protect plants in areas with high traffic, such as gardens near pathways. The height of the walls also helps regulate soil temperature, preventing stress among plants.
-
Raised Ground Beds: This is the simplest type of raised bed, requiring only additional soil. The bed is created by either adding soil on top of the existing ground or digging pathways between the beds. While this option is cost-effective and convenient, it offers poor protection against excess water drainage and potential damage from stray animals.
-
Supported Raised Beds: These beds provide additional support and protection compared to raised ground beds. They are created by using frames made from materials such as stone, brick, wood, or plastic to edge the bed. The frames separate the bed from the rest of the garden or lawn.
Raised Garden Bed Plans
The article also mentions different raised garden bed plans. Here are a few examples:
-
2x2 Raised Planter: This small-sized raised garden bed can fit in any type of garden, even those with limited space. It is suitable for planting flowers and herbs near windows for easy access.
-
Herb Wheel Planter: This hexagon-shaped raised garden bed has six cavities for planting. It offers an aesthetic appeal to the garden and is suitable for DIY enthusiasts.
-
Multi-Level or Tiered Garden Bed: This type of raised garden bed provides convenience and protection for plants. It consists of multiple tiers, allowing for cool shade for cool-season plants in the lower tiers and exposure to sunlight for summer plants in the upper tiers.
-
Vertical Garden: Similar to multi-level garden beds, vertical garden beds allow for vertical planting. They can be installed indoors by attaching containers to walls, providing easy access to herbs.
-
Cinder Block Raised Bed: This is a simple and cost-effective raised garden bed idea. It involves arranging cinder blocks on a flat surface and filling the space with raised garden bed soil.
Best Raised Garden Beds
The article provides a comparison and rating of the top five raised garden beds in the market. Here are the key features of each:
-
KETER Urban Bloomer 12.7 Gallon Raised Garden Bed: This raised bed comes with an easy-to-read water gauge, a controllable drainage system, and a detachable seed-sprouting tray. It is suitable for those concerned about the water system of their plants.
-
VIVOSUN Vertical Raised Garden Bed: This vertical garden bed allows for vertical planting in a small footprint. It features a galvanized steel frame and an effective water drainage system.
-
HEGEMONE Co. Tiered Raised Elevated Garden Bed Planter Box: This three-tier elevated garden bed is made of heavy-duty aluminum and offers premium protection against pests. It is suitable for those looking for an organized and aesthetically pleasing garden.
-
Taleco Gear Wooden Raised Garden Bed: This raised garden bed is made of solid fir wood and comes with steel corner brackets. It offers flexibility in size and is suitable for those concerned about the materials used in their raised garden bed frames.
-
Infinite Cedar Raised Bed Garden: This raised garden bed is made of thick Western red cedar boards and requires no tools for assembly. It offers ample space for planting and is suitable for those looking for a durable and chemical-free option.
Buyer's Guide
The article provides a buyer's guide for choosing the best raised garden bed. It suggests considering factors such as the size of the garden, materials used, features offered, and price.
FAQs
The article also answers some frequently asked questions about raised garden beds. It highlights the benefits of using raised garden beds, the importance of determining the depth and size of the bed, and the materials that can be used at the bottom of the bed.
In conclusion, raised garden beds offer numerous advantages for both professional farmers and urban gardeners. They come in different types and designs, allowing for customization based on individual needs and preferences. The article provides a comprehensive overview of raised garden beds, including types, plans, and recommendations for the best products in the market.
