The Memphis Area Master Gardeners Through Our Garden Gates Tour was held in June. I noticed that many of the homes featured beautiful, raised beds. Raised beds are quite popular at present. During the tour, I was asked about starting raised bed gardens.

Raised beds offer several advantages. The soil in a raised bed becomes warmer earlier in the spring, giving you a head start on planting. They can be built from cinder blocks, metal, wood, or other materials. Additionally, having multiple beds makes crop rotation easier.

Raised beds are also a great option if your yard has wet spots or other obstacles that make traditional gardening difficult. They can make gardening more comfortable and add a beautiful, organized look to your landscape.

When planning raised beds, be sure to choose the right size. A good rule of thumb is that you should be able to reach the center of the bed from either side so you will not need to step inside to maintain it. Shorter side boards are also less likely to warp than longer ones.

Wood is the most common material for raised beds because it’s easy to find and affordable. Galvanized steel is becoming a popular alternative. It is rust-resistant and provides good depth. Pavers and cinder blocks are also good choices, but they can be more expensive.

One of the most appealing features of raised beds is that you can create your own custom soil mix for good fertility and drainage. Additionally, weed control is easier in a confined space. However, always remember that raised beds dry out faster than in-ground gardens, thus regular watering is essential.
Raised beds are perfect for vegetables, flowers, or both! If you would like more information about planning and planting your raised beds, I would be happy to help.
Enjoy your raised beds and stay cool this summer!