Beginner's Guide to Raised Bed Gardening: Growing Your Own Foods

Don't pay much attention to other scepticism. Age isn't always wisdom - if it's something you want to do, just do it. Whether you're motivated by the love for flavor, a desire for pesticide-free produce, or simply the thrill of saving money, a raised bed garden can be a rewarding venture.

Consider Your Motivation

Consider your reasons for starting a garden. Are you growing for interest, to control your food, or just to save money? While saving money is a valid reason, it's important to weigh the potential costs. In the short term, it might end up costing more than buying produce. Still, there are myriad benefits to growing your own food.

Actionable Steps to Get Started

Choose What to Grow

Start with the easiest choices. For instance, pumpkins and lady fingers bananas grow 'by themselves' in my backyard! Strawberries once grew wild, but when I moved things around, the space became too hot. Now, they're free and easy with a little fertiliser for enhanced taste and nutrition. Pumpkins are a great choice if you enjoy the flavor and have plenty of space, but other easy vegetables exist too. Tailor recommendations to your tastes and the climate of your region.

Utilize Online Resources

There are numerous resources online, such as YouTube, where channels like Self-sufficient Me provide valuable guidance. Consider your region when selecting what to grow; don't just stick to the state or even the city, but look up specific locations. Regional advice comes in handy when dealing with factors like overnight temperatures, frosts, wind, and sun intensity. Remember, what works well for one person might not work for another.

Find Local Growers

Search Facebook for local growers' groups. People love to help fellow growers, and you might even find nearby individuals who share your passion. This can offer support and advice as you navigate your gardening journey.

Setting Up Your Raised Bed Garden

Choose Quality Materials

The ideal situation is to build big, glorious garden beds that inspire envy, but it's not necessary. Stick to the following guidelines:

Use impermeable materials, such as galvanised metal sheeting or thick food-safe non-leaching plastics. Masonry can work, but be aware that moisture will soak through. My ex used cinder blocks to layout the garden bed, filled them, and utilised the ‘holes’ to grow herbs or other pest-deterrent plants without interfering with the main grow space. Timber is also an option, but ensure it's not treated with harmful substances. Research thoroughly if you plan to use it.

Build Reasonably Sized Beds

Build your garden beds to be accessible. If you can't reach the center without stepping into the garden, the bed is too big, leading to wasted space or difficulty tending to it.

Improve Your Soil

Remember that garden soil can be expensive and not all soils are great for growing fruits and vegetables. You can improve your soil over time with the right techniques. Aerate, break up, and turn over the soil, then add organic matter like vegetable scraps. Be cautious not to overuse leaves and grass clippings. Ideal soil should be consumed by worms and insects, turning into rich manure. Commercial fertilisers and manure are also excellent, but remember to use them in moderation. Match plant preferences with the soil pH. Mixing plants with different pH preferences can lead to disappointment. If possible, use pots for specific pH needs.

That's all for now. This is a massive topic, and this guide is just the beginning. Good luck and have fun. By keeping it fun, you'll reap the bonuses of tasty, home-grown produce.