Traditionally, vegetables were grown in rows and blocks, however with the development of mechanical farming techniques, it was easier to tend crops which were grown in long rows. More recently with the increasing trend to grow vegetables at home, or on the allotment, raised beds have become a popular alternative.

Raised beds are usually 3 or 4 feet in width, allowing easy access to the middle, and can be any length. The soil levels in these beds are usually a few inches above the surrounding ground.

Advantages of Raised Beds:

• Permanent paths can be established
• Soils drains freely
• Soil warms up quickly
• Beds provide good growing depth
• Defined areas are less daunting
• Rotation of vegetables is easier
• Beds can be made to fit all spaces

Disadvantages of Raised Beds:

• Time to build
• Expense to build
• Dry out quickly in summer
• Not easy to relocate