What’s the Best Size for Building Raised Beds?

Raised beds have become an integral part of my gardening strategy, and for good reason. They offer improved soil quality, allowing me to customize the soil mix to meet the specific needs of my plants. This is especially valuable if you're dealing with less-than-ideal native soil or a new home build with uncertain soil composition. Additionally, raised beds extend the growing season by warming up faster in the spring, providing better drainage, and offering easier access for planting and maintenance.

Designing Your Raised Bed

When it comes to designing your raised bed, there are several factors to consider. The dimensions of your garden space, the tools you use, and the crops you plan to grow all play a role in determining the ideal size and layout. For instance, if you frequently use row covers or trellises, it's essential to choose a bed width that accommodates these tools. Similarly, if you have mobility considerations, such as using a wheelchair or cane, the height and width of the beds should be tailored to ensure accessibility.

Bed depth is another consideration. Most plants have roots that go between 4 and 8 inches into the soil, some even deeper. Choosing a bed depth that allows for at least 16” of soil is suitable for most crops. If you’re trying to save money on materials, as shallow as 8” is acceptable if you’re only growing shallow-rooted crops like lettuces or radishes.

Lastly, take a look around your garden space. How much room do you need to maneuver around the beds? Do you bring wheelbarrows or carts into the space? Keep this in mind when deciding on raised bed dimensions - you don’t want to overcrowd the space and make it difficult to work in.

Choosing the Right Materials

In my journey, I've experimented with various materials for raised beds, from scrap lumber to prefab planter boxes to old wash tubs. Each material has its pros and cons, and it's crucial to select one that suits your specific needs and budget. Found materials can be a cost-effective option, while prefab boxes offer convenience and uniformity. Ultimately, the choice is yours, and it's all about making the best of what you have and working with your own design aesthetic.

Placement and Sunlight Considerations

The placement of your raised beds is just as important as their design. Sunlight exposure is a critical factor, and it's essential to choose a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight. If you're gardening in the Northern Hemisphere, orienting your beds North to South can prevent taller crops from shading shorter ones. Additionally, keeping a garden journal to track sunlight availability throughout the seasons can help you make informed decisions about bed placement.

Irrigation and Layout

Irrigation is another key consideration when planning your raised bed garden. Whether you opt for drip tape, low-lying sprinklers, or hand watering, it's important to ensure that your irrigation system is compatible with the bed size and layout. If the beds are too wide, it may make hand watering difficult without stepping into the bed and compressing the soil. Proper planning can prevent soil compaction and make watering more efficient.

Choose What’s Best for You in Your Garden

As I continue to experiment with different raised bed configurations, I've learned that there's no one-size-fits-all solution. It's about finding what works best for you and your garden. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting, raised beds offer a world of possibilities. So, grab your measuring tape, sketch out your garden space, and then take the leap. You might find you wonder why you waited!

Need more help deciding on the best size for a new raised bed? I go into a lot more detail in this podcast episode: How Big Should a Raised Bed Be? - Ep. 265.

Your Friend in the Garden,

Karin