I live in a suburban area with a fenced yard that has a 6-foot privacy fence. The only major concern we have is rabbits, but they have plenty of easier food sources around. I'm debating whether to go with 2-foot tall metal raised beds filled with about a foot of soil without any additional fencing, or should I opt for 1-foot tall beds and then add a 16 to 24-inch fence? Which option makes more sense for the long term?
2 Answers
Going with the 2-foot tall beds sounds like a great idea! You’ll have better drainage, and they’ll be easier on your back since you won't have to bend down as much. Plus, unless the rabbits are really determined, they might leave them alone since they have plenty of other food options.
If you can handle the 2-foot beds, I'd say go for those instead of adding more fencing. Fencing can limit your access to the beds, and you might struggle to reach plants from all sides. Just make sure the beds are in a sunny spot, since metal can heat up quickly and require more watering.
That’s a good point! I was thinking about a shorter fence for the 1-foot beds, but I’d definitely have less access. I really just want to make sure whatever I choose, the rabbits don’t get to my vegetables!