Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Raised beds can be made from a variety of materials. This one
is made with cinder blocks and landscape timbers.
Shape and Orientation of Raised Beds
The most common and useful shape for raised beds is
rectangular. Certain planters for flowers are circular, and this
works fine as long as the diameter is not so great that the
gardener has to step into the bed. Another common shape is a
4-foot square. This works well for casual vegetable-only
gardening on a small scale, but at the scale of providing all
the needs of a family, it becomes wasteful of space and
material.
I recommend a rectangular shape because it makes maximum
use of space and minimal material while making it easy to
add standardized structures like hoop houses.
Any rectangular bed is going to be longer than it is wide. To
give maximum sun to crops and avoid shading, ensure that
the long sides face north and south. Any trellising for vining
crops should be established along the north edge to get the
advantage of sunshine without shading other crops.
Size of Raised Beds: Width
