When planning to create a raised planter in your yard, you’ll want to think about the height, materials used, and optimal plant spacing. There are also several things to consider, such as cost and the amount of space you’d like to dedicate to the container. Fortunately, there are many resources that can help you decide which kind of raised planter will be the best choice for your yard.
Materials used
When building a raised planter, you need to consider the materials that you choose. You don’t want to use pressure-treated lumber, which is not only susceptible to rot, but it also can leach chemicals into your soil. In the past, pressure-treated lumber was often made of lumber that contained CCA (chrome-copper arsenate). These chemicals are considered to be dangerous for use in gardens, but newer versions are formulated without CCA and copper.
While wood is the most common material used, you can also choose composite wood or other materials made of recycled materials. Composite wood is a mixture of wood particles and synthetic materials that resist rot and other problems. Composite wood is usually longer-lasting and less expensive than natural wood. It also doesn’t require staining or oiling, and it can mimic the look of real wood. You can also find composite beds that are eco-friendly.
Another popular material used for raised planters is concrete blocks. These are commonly used to build garden retaining walls and raised beds. However, there are few studies to determine the effects of concrete blocks on edible plants, and you need to be careful when using them. Also, be aware of the risk of exposure to creosote, which is used to treat buildings.
You can also use wooden planks or landscape timbers to build a raised bed. If you don’t like using wood, you can also use metal. However, you should use wood-preservative to extend the life of your raised planter. The materials for your raised planter should be chosen carefully based on the conditions of your garden.
The best choice for raised beds is a mix that contains organic matter and good topsoil. A good organic matter mix can be made up of ground pine bark, compost, and rotted leaves. These materials provide good drainage and make tilling the soil easier. You can also buy potting soil mixes in many different types.
Optimal spacing for plants in a raised planter
Optimal spacing for plants in a planted bed is essential to getting the best harvest possible. Many new gardeners make the mistake of overcrowding their plants, which can lead to disease problems and lower harvests. This problem is worsened by the competition between plants for nutrients.
The amount of space between rows and plants depends on the type of plant. Some small plants grow with only a few inches of space between each other, while larger plants require more space. If you’re planning to sow or transplant, make sure you know the recommended space before planting. You’ll also want to avoid planting different types of plants in one space.
The ideal spacing for vegetables in a raised bed may vary depending on the type of soil. If the soil is low in nutrients, plants may require less space. In these cases, continue to follow recommended spacings, provided that there is no adverse effect on plant growth. Optimal spacing for plants in a raised planter should be at least two inches between each plant.
Cost of a raised planter
Raised planters are an excellent alternative to regular garden beds. They provide a comfortable height for the gardener and are easy to access. They can also be multi-tiered, providing greater planting space without taking up as much ground space. They are also ideal for smaller gardens and terraces. Before you buy a raised bed, learn what features to look for.
The cost of a raised planter depends on the materials and labor involved in its construction. A customized wooden raised bed can cost upwards of $500. Hard materials like stone and brick may also be more expensive. Prefabricated raised beds, however, are much cheaper than custom-made ones. However, they can vary greatly in quality and price.
If you want to create two separate zones in your yard, consider a custom-built linear raised bed. This will provide a visual barrier between the two areas, creating a more spacious feel. In addition, low-height planters will allow you to see over them to keep an eye on children.
For your vegetables, try to buy containers that are between twelve to eighteen inches tall. You can also reuse containers you already have. Some stores like JOANN and Michaels sell a variety of containers. These are cheaper and can double as raised planters. Just make sure to check out the drainage holes before purchasing. Plants do not do well with soggy roots. You can also buy inexpensive containers at Dollar Tree.
