Ideal Bed Depth6-12 inches minimum
Max Reach Width4 feet (access both sides)
Soil Volume/SF0.5-1 cubic foot
Container Min Size5 gallons for most veggies
Yield Increase2-4x vs in-ground
Water SavingsUp to 50% with drip
Part I: Foundations
Chapters 1-3
Chapter 1
Why Raised Beds & Containers
Before diving into construction and planting, let's understand why raised beds and containers have become the go-to choice for home gardeners worldwide. Understanding these benefits will help you design the perfect system for your specific situation.
Chapter 2
Planning Your Layout
Good planning is the foundation of a successful raised bed or container garden. Taking time to assess your site, plan your layout, and consider future needs will save time, money, and frustration down the road.
Chapter 3
Materials & Construction
Choosing the right materials for your raised beds affects longevity, safety, cost, and aesthetics. This chapter covers all common options along with construction techniques for building durable, productive beds.
Quick Reference
Bed Dimensions
Width (2-side access):4 feet max
Width (1-side access):2 feet max
Depth (most veggies):12 inches
Path width:24-36 inches
Container Sizes
Tomatoes:10-15 gallons
Peppers:5+ gallons
Lettuce, herbs:1-2 gallons
Potatoes:10-15 gallons
Plants Per Square Foot
1 plant:Tomato, pepper, broccoli
4 plants:Lettuce, chard, herbs
9 plants:Beans, beets, spinach
16 plants:Carrots, radishes, onions
Why Raised Beds & Containers
- Control over soil quality—no dealing with clay, rocks, or contamination
- Better drainage prevents waterlogging and root rot
- Soil warms faster in spring for earlier planting
- Reduced bending and kneeling—easier on back and knees
- Defined spaces reduce weed pressure and foot traffic compaction
- Higher yields per square foot with intensive planting
- Easier to protect with covers, netting, or cold frames
- Can be built over concrete, gravel, or poor soil
Challenges to Expect
- Initial construction cost and labor
- Soil must be purchased or created
- Dries out faster than in-ground beds
- Wood beds eventually rot and need replacement
- May require more frequent watering
- Limited root depth for some crops
- Can get too hot in intense summer heat
- Weight considerations for rooftop/balcony containers