Gardening in Raised Beds

I like systems and the system I utilize for raised bed gardens is known as "WORD"

W - Wide Rows

O - Organic Methods

R - Raised Beds

D - Deep Soil

When I start a new bed, I typically like to till all the soil under 1-2 weeks ahead of further work. Then I build the box around the tilled area, I try to sprinkle rock dust or something like Azomite to put minerals back and ensure a robust growing environment. Then I start to add a mix of soil and ready to spread compost (not the super hot stuff that just completed decomposition that is way to hot unless you do that in the Fall and let it rest over the winter.   I have used black plastic wrap to help the soil warm up in the Spring. That also acts as a weed barrier when the Spring winds are roaring, it helps to alleviate a lot of weeding. 

I also like to keep costs contained for all things including gardening as you can spend tons of money on gardening even before purchasing your seeds. Last year, I needed to replace the 2 x 12 boards that were the edges of my beds and I utilized small tree 'logs' no larger than 6" in diameter size to frame my raised beds. I then used a chainsaw to cut a level sides on both logs so they fit together snug. I also drilled a 1/2" whole through those two pieces then place small branches in those holes to make the frame nice and snug.

I like the length of my raised beds to be 3-4' wide and the length to be 6-8'. I try to leave 18-24" spacing between my beds so I can get in and work from all angles without having to step into the bed.  I like my soil depth to by 8-12" of soft and fluffy soil, as I alluded to above, I try to avoid walking or stepping on the soil. I work the soil from all angles. I know, I know there is a whole soil religion out there known as 'no till' I only till every couple of years so I am sitting on the fence on that issue! 

I also follow crop rotation methodology across my raised beds for several benefits. This simple programs help keep bugs and fungus growth down and cuts down on excessive mineral depletion by one crop. 

I also like to use cover crops to over-winter and this helps pull nitrogen from the air and put it back in the soil.

Enjoy getting your hands dirty!