I wish to build a garden bed that is raised above the ground on legs - maybe 2 ft from the ground and I need an idea for a base which the soil will sit on. Can you help? -
Most of the time, for a bed like this, people simply build a wood box. But, I have also seen people use the steel watering/feeding troughs that they sell at feed stores.
When building raised vegetable garden boxes (1/2 in ground, 1/2 above), do I need to put down any plastic or other barrier? What about chicken wire to keep out gophers?
Some people do use plastic, but that is more to keep deep rooted weeds from growing up through the bed. If you decide to do this, be aware that the plastic can restrict the roots of your plants. It is probably not needed unless you had a serious weed problem where the beds are now.
Chicken wire buried around the beds is an excellent way to keep digging critters out of the bed. It will not harm your plants. You will want to bury the chicken wire 1-2 feet to be effective against digging animals.
What sprays can you use to get rid of earwigs? They seem to be particularly bad this year in my raised vegetable garden beds. Is there a better way to eliminate these pests?
I would recommend neem oil. It is safe for people, pets and beneficial bugs but kills most of the bad bugs. Here is more information on it: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm
Would it be appropriate to first lay a layer of rocks at the bottom of a raised garden box and then put in the soil (similar to planting house plants in pots)?
If you have clay soil, this is a great idea as it will help with drainage. It is less necessary for other soils, but can't hurt to have that extra drainage in place.
I'm going to make raised garden beds and was wondering since under the beds is clay, do I need to put a layer of rocks for drainage?
If you have clay soil, this is a great idea as it will help with drainage. It is less necessary for other soils, but can't hurt to have that extra drainage in place. In addition, you may want to consider amending the clay soil. This article should help with tips for doing that: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/how-to-improve-clay-soil.htm
How can I amend my soil? It's pale and drains too fast. My plants last yr did hardly anything. It stays compacted. HELP!!!!!!
These articles should help you with that: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/how-to-improve-clay-soil.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/amending-sandy-soil.htm
I have raised beds and think we have too much nitrogen since the plants are green and lush but do not produce much fruit and vegetables. Do you have any ideas for this season?
Add phosphorus to the soil to help re-balance it. Bone meal is a good source of phosphorus. Here is an article with other suggestions: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/too-much-nitrogen-soil.htm