Raised garden beds are a popular option for home gardeners for a good reason: you have more control over soil quality, better drainage and fewer weeds! But there are some easy mistakes to make when you’re establishing a raised garden bed, whether it’s your first one or a new addition to many others.
The good news is that many of the most common raised garden mistakes can be avoided or fixed if you’re aware of them. So, here’s what you need to know about five of the most common issues.
Raised garden bed mistakes
1. Choosing the wrong location
So you’ve decided you want to establish a raised garden bed? Make sure the location you choose receives adequate sunlight and drainage. If your bed is in full shade, most of your plants won’t thrive. The same can be said for a raised garden bed in full sun. You might need to factor in some shading options.
2. Watering incorrectly
How you water your raised garden bed can make all the difference to your plants. Water deeply and consistently, but avoid waterlogged soil. Consider using a soaker hose or drip irrigation for efficient watering.
3. Using the wrong soil
As well as ensuring you have enough soil to adequately fill up your garden bed, you need to ensure it’s good quality. Soil from your garden probably doesn’t have enough nutrients. Instead, use a high-quality, well-draining garden soil mix with organic matter like compost or aged manure.
To fill a raised garden bed, layer the bottom with organic matter like compost, then fill the bed with a well-draining garden soil mix or soil blend, levelling it and watering thoroughly before planting your crops.
Adding good quality soil when establishing your garden bed isn’t enough either. You have to keep adding organic matter to maintain the nutrients.
4. Overcrowding plants
Planting too many plants in a small raised bed can lead to overcrowding and fighting over nutrients. Follow proper spacing recommendations for the plants you’re growing to ensure they have enough room to thrive.
5. Not mulching
Neglecting to mulch the raised bed can lead to moisture loss and weed growth. Apply a layer of organic mulch to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Picking the best mulch for the job is important. Read about the best types of mulch for your garden.
Top 4 raised garden beds
If you need a new raised garden bed now, here are 4 of our favourite options you can buy online.
1. Gordo galvanised steel raised garden bed, from $69.95, Temple & Webster
2. 110cm Ergo Hex raised garden beds (set of 2), $219, Temple & Webster
3. Potey raised garden bed with greenhouse, $115.61, Amazon.
4. VidaXL raised garden bed, $76.99, Amazon
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