Raise It Up? The Debate About Adding Raised Beds

By Amanda

While planning my vegetable garden for the spring, I have been debating about whether or not to build a raised bed. I decided to weigh out the benefits and drawbacks, and make a logical decision. For your benefit, as I’m sure there are other gardeners trying to make this same decision, the pros and cons of raised beds can be found below, along with my decision.

I live in the city and am not quite sure what could be in my soil (i.e. lead). Planting my vegetables in a raised garden bed will help to ensure that my soil is healthy and chemical-free.

A raised garden bed provides better drainage for your plants, which will make your plants happier and prevent rot.

Having a structure around an elevated bed can help to protect your plants from pests such as slugs and snails.

A higher garden means less bending down to weed!

There is something eye-catching about a raised garden bed with a wooden border. It is neat, self-contained, and can be a great statement in your garden.

Raised beds can be purchased from garden centers or built from material – either way, it could mean less money towards your plants for the season!

For those trying to cut costs and build their own raised bed, this could result in hours of planning, nailing, re-doing…

When making my list of pros and cons, the first pro, “Ensuring soil quality,” was a deal-breaker. Living in a city, I don’t think I would feel comfortable planting my vegetables directly in the ground. The other benefits are appealing as well, especially keeping slugs away from my veggies!

As for the drawbacks, I am definitely going to build my own raised bed and have a couple of friends who will be happy to help – it will be a fun project for one of the first sunny weekends in early spring! 

Happy Gardening!