Backyard living: Why build a raised garden bed? (Jane's design at Evanson Residence)

Building a raised garden bed can have many benefits. Beds can be created to be large or small.  Here is a list --  a backyard living 101 crash course -- of just some reasons why you may want to build a raised garden bed in your landscape.

• Pest management: Higher beds are harder for rabbits, gophers, moles and other critters to invade.
• Easy on the knees and back: Raised gardens save bending and deep digging in hard earth -- especially with smaller raised garden beds.
• Soil control: If you don’t have ideal soil you don’t have to deal with amendments, just fill your raised bed with a good, rich loam and you’re ready to plant.
• Great for aging and physical disabilities: Raised gardens are easy to reach and work in if they are planned with easy access.
• Waterwise: Water can be contained without waste and is much easier to control.
• Beauty: You can make wonderfully ornamental planters with all kinds of decorative materials in any shape you want.
• Pets: It’s easier to keep pets from getting into gardens when the plant areas are raised and less accessible.
• You can enclose it easily if you need to do so for frost protection, shade from excess heat or insect pests.

If you enjoy building, you can build a raised garden bed to match any style garden. It can be utilitarian or decorative. It can be built of recycled materials, stone, cement blocks, wood or many other materials. You can build a large or small vegetable garden in any shape that fits your space. You can even build a raised garden on a patio or balcony or where there is limited space. And if you aren’t handy with tools, you can hire someone to build a great looking raised garden bed for you or just buy one that comes in an easy-to-assemble kit or one that is ready made. With all these great reasons to build a raised garden bed, why not consider having a raised garden bed in your garden?