Tips for Creating Raised Bed Planters

Raised beds can be as simple as mounding up soil into a deep, wide planting area. Here are a few tips on how to garden with them.

By Joe Lamp'lMore in Outdoors

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raised beds are good for many older gardeners

Before You Start Building...

If you are using flexible material such as lumber, the pressure of the soil will cause the wood to bow out. Provide staking halfway down the length and secure the wood to it to prevent this outward bowing.

If using wood, build the frame so the wood grain on all boards is facing inward. Otherwise, they may pull away and curve toward the outside as the wood dries and weathers. Not only is this unsightly, but it can also pull the screws or nails out as well, making your beds less secure.