I'm wondering if making my raised garden beds 24 inches high is too deep. I have some 2x12 heat-treated planks from a friend, and I'm thinking of doubling them up to reach that height. I usually grow tomatoes and basil in 3x6 foot beds, so I'd like to know if this height is manageable or if it could create any issues.
3 Answers
I've got raised beds that are almost 36 inches high, made of metal, and they’re holding up really well. Just be cautious with wood; mine rotted in just a few years. The aluminum ones, while not that different in price after everything’s considered, seem to last much longer!
It really depends on your climate! Raised beds can dry out quickly and be sensitive to temperature changes. If you're in a rainy area, a taller bed might work great, but if it's hot and dry, just be ready to water a lot!
I'm in zone 10a, so the summers are quite hot, and my planters get full afternoon sun. I've had good luck using a drip system along with a thick layer of mulch, around 3-4 inches.
24 inches isn't too high at all! If you go for taller raised beds, just make sure to stack some logs and branches at the bottom to save on soil costs; they'll help fill the space without breaking the bank on soil.
My current boxes are made from 1x4 fence slats and they've lasted over 5 years, but they’re starting to show wear. I think having a consistent drip system has helped keep them from getting too soggy, but the sun is warping them and causing screws to pop out.