What Are The Benefits Of Using Raised Beds For Improved Soil Aeration?
Do you want a beautiful garden with raised beds that also offer numerous benefits? If so, you're in luck because we have some great information for you! At the Thomas Lumber Company, we have experience with creating raised beds and we know that they are an effective way to not only improve the appearance of your garden but also enhance the health of your plants.
Benefits of Raised Beds
Here are just a few of the many benefits of raised beds:
1. Soil Temperature Control
Raised beds offer better soil temperature control than in-ground gardens. Because raised beds are above ground, the soil has a lot more time to warm up before planting. This allows seeds to germinate and plants to grow much faster since warm soil leads to speedy growth. Raised beds will also warm up sooner in the spring, so you can get a jumpstart on planting.
2. Drainage
Raised beds allow for better drainage than in-ground gardens. Soil that is too wet can drown plants or lead to root rot. Raised beds can help prevent water from standing around plant roots by allowing water to run off more easily. This can be particularly helpful during times of heavy rainfall.
3. Pest Control
Raised beds can help with pest control in a few different ways. Firstly, pests such as rabbits or grasshoppers will have a harder time getting to your plants because raised beds are elevated off the ground. Secondly, if pests do manage to get up to the raised bed, you can install a barrier around it to prevent them from getting in. Lastly, raised beds can also be equipped with netting or row covers that can protect your plants from flying pests such as moths or beetles.
4. Lesser Weeding
Raised beds require less weeding than in-ground gardens. By planting in raised beds, you are working with a confined space. This makes it easier to control weeds because you only have to deal with one small area at a time. Weeds usually won't grow as quickly in raised beds because the area is kept free of debris, and the soil is well-cultivated and better suited for growing plants.
5. Easier Access
Raised beds can make gardening much easier by saving your back! Since the beds are elevated, you don't have to bend over as much to weed, plant, or harvest. This means less stress on your back, knees, and joints. It also makes gardening easier for those with disabilities or who use wheelchairs.
6. Longer Growing Season
Raised beds can extend the growing season for your crops. Because the soil in raised beds warms up faster and drains better, you can plant earlier in the spring and later into the fall. This can lead to an increased harvest and more variety in the crops you can grow each year.
Building Your Raised Bed
Now that you know the benefits of raised beds, it's time to build one! You will need the following:
- Lumber (2x6 or 2x8 work well)
- Landscape fabric
- Garden soil
- Compost
- Garden trowel
- Jigsaw
Once you have your supplies, follow these steps:
- Choose a sunny spot in your yard where there is ample space for your raised bed. It should be easy to access from all sides.
- Cut your lumber pieces down to size. Most stores sell 8ft long lumber. Cut two pieces to match the width of your desired bed length. Cut two pieces to match the desired bed width. Assemble the pieces like a box and secure them with screws or nails.
- Lay down your landscape fabric inside the box to prevent weeds from growing up through your bed.
- Add a layer of compost to the bottom of the box.
- Fill the rest of the box with a mixture of garden soil and compost. Make sure your bed is deep enough to allow root growth for your crops.
- Use your garden trowel to create a series of small holes where you want to plant your crops.
- Add your seeds or seedlings!
Caring for Your Raised Bed
Your raised bed will need regular care to ensure it stays healthy. Here are a few things you should keep in mind:
Watering
Raised beds may need more water than in-ground gardens. This is because the soil in raised beds drains more quickly. Make sure you're watering your raised bed frequently enough to prevent it from drying out. Monitor the soil for moisture levels and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
Fertilization
Regularly fertilizing your raised bed will help keep your plants healthy and encourage them to grow well. You can use organic fertilizers such as compost or fish emulsion to nourish your plants. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to a build-up of salts in the soil.
Weeding
While raised beds may require less weeding than in-ground gardens, you'll still need to keep an eye out for any pesky weeds that pop up. Use a garden hoe or trowel to remove any weeds as soon as you see them. This will help prevent them from stealing valuable nutrients from your plants.
Pest Control
As mentioned earlier, raised beds can help with pest control. However, pests can still find their way into your garden. Keep an eye out for any signs of pests and use organic pest control methods to keep them at bay.
Conclusion
Building a raised bed can be a fun and rewarding experience. Not only will you have a beautiful garden with healthier plants and a longer growing season, but you'll also have less weeding to do and easier access to your crops. Whether you're new to gardening or an experienced pro, raised beds are a great way to take your garden to the next level. So what are you waiting for? Start building your raised bed today!
