Raised Bed Planting Guide

How It Works

Raised beds are one of the best ways to start a garden, especially if your yard has poor soil, drainage problems, or heavy clay. By filling a raised bed with good soil mix, you create the perfect growing environment from day one. A common size is 4 feet wide by 8 feet long, which gives you 32 square feet of growing space — enough to feed a small family a steady supply of salads and vegetables through summer. The 4-foot width is important because you can reach the center from either side without stepping on the soil. Stepping on garden soil compacts it, which makes it harder for roots to grow. Using square foot gardening in raised beds is especially effective because the rich soil supports intensive planting. You can grow a surprising amount of food in a small space.