In the urban environment, we don’t have big fields – but just might have a patch of front or back yard that can be converted to growing space. Container gardening is one excellent way to go about growing in the city (the Earthbox being the easiest and most fool-proof way to grow in containers) but if you have enough space you can build yourself a “mini-field” by building a raised bed garden.
What are raised beds? They are essentially any method for growing on top of your native soil so that you input and have control over the soil conditions. Raised beds can be any structure, often made from wood or rocks, that can effectively hold soil in place – or even simply be a free-form mound of soil stacked high enough to support root structures (12-18 inches, depending on what you are growing).
If you’re good with wood you can build a simple raised bed frame fairly easily. However, the wood will eventually go back to nature and the structure becomes comprised along the way – especially at the corners. Enter two great new products that I’m excited about from some savvy designers in California – the Raised Bed Garden Kit and Raised Bed Patio Kit by Scout Regalia.
This minimally-designed framework for building a raised bed allows you to build either on your lawn/garden or the patio, by forming the corners of your raised bed to which your beds’ 2×6 planks are secured. Mid-ribs also support the shape and provide stability from the soil’s outward pressure. This also allows a multitude of possible shapes and sizes.
By shipping only the small metal parts and buying your wood locally, transportation carbon footprint – and shipping costs – are minimized. And the baked enamel-coated metal will last for many years to come.
Easier, lower carbon footprint, long lasting, and allowing you to grow your own. Great stuff Scout Regalia!
Sustainable For Life 