Why Raised Beds Anyway?

Let’s raise extroverted plants who like to mingle. Top-quality soil means plants grow faster and bigger. And the extra depth means vegetables send their roots down, rather than out, and avoid bumping elbows with their neighbors. We can fit so many plants in each bed.
Grasses and weeds easily grow into ground beds. But raised beds keep those suckers out. Sure, some seeds will blow in and shallowly take root, but they’re so easy to remove.
No one will accidentally tromp on soil within a raised bed. This protects fragile seedlings and reduces the need to dig or turn the soil. Bonus—it’s pretty helpful when we’re gardening with small children and pets.
Raised soil drains better and helps prevent plant rot. It also warms up faster, which means you can start planting earlier in the spring.
Raised beds are tidier and easier tend. And extra tall beds are convenient for anyone who has trouble bending or kneeling to garden.