Top Questions About Raised Garden Beds

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Questions About Raised Garden Beds

Asked by
Anonymous on
November 29, 2010

Q. Raised Garden Bed

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?
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Answered by
Heather on
December 1, 2010
Certified Expert
A.

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.

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Asked by
Anonymous on
December 29, 2010

Q. Vegetable Garden Protection

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?

Answered by
Nikki on
December 30, 2010
Certified Expert
A.

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.

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Asked by
Anonymous on
December 29, 2010

Q. Eliminating Earwigs

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?

Answered by
Nikki on
December 30, 2010
Certified Expert
A.

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

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Asked by
Anonymous on
January 1, 2011

Q. Filling Box With Soil

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)?

Answered by
Nikki on
January 3, 2011
Certified Expert
A.

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.

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Asked by
Anonymous on
February 5, 2011

Q. Clay in Raised Beds

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?

Answered by
Nikki on
February 7, 2011
Certified Expert
A.

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

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Asked by
brandymotes on
March 4, 2011

Q. I Have a Raised Veggie Garden Bed Apx 10×12, My Soil Is Sand and Clay.

How can I amend my soil? It’s pale and drains too fast. My plants last yr did hardly anything. It stays compacted. HELP!!!!!!

Answered by
Nikki on
March 4, 2011
Certified Expert
A.

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

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Asked by
nashdeg on
March 6, 2011

Q. I Have Raised Beds and Think We Have Too Much Nitrogen

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?

Answered by
Nikki on
March 7, 2011
Certified Expert
A.

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

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