I'm setting up my first raised bed vegetable garden using some skids from work, and I'm looking for advice on how to protect them from too much rain and local wildlife. Last season, I grew two tomato plants successfully in one of these skids, but this year I'm planning to grow kale, bell peppers, arugula, green beans, and sugar snap peas—each in a separate skid. My biggest issue last year was heavy rain leading to root rot in the tomatoes. Plus, we have deer and groundhogs around that I want to keep away from my veggies. I've included a photo of my setup to give you an idea of what I'm working with! What are some good options for weather and wildlife protection?
2 Answers
That setup looks great! One thing to check is how well the water drains out of the bottom. You might want to drill some extra holes to help with drainage, especially during heavy rain. Also, consider the type of soil you're using; some mixes can retain too much moisture. Mel's Mix is popular because it helps prevent overwatering due to its vermiculite content. During heavy storms, throwing a tarp over your beds could be a good idea too! Here's to a fruitful gardening season!
Did you have clay soil in your area? The great thing about raised beds is that drainage typically won’t be an issue; they're more likely to dry out too quickly than hold too much water. But if the soil mix is too dense or holds onto moisture, that can lead to problems. Make sure to keep an eye on that!
I didn’t check the clay aspect, but I’ll look into it! Thanks for the heads up!
Thanks for the tips! I’ve definitely drilled a few holes for drainage, but I’ll look into Mel's Mix for a better soil option. I appreciate your advice!