Raised bed gardening: Part 2
Tall raised beds are a practical option for gardeners who desire a defined garden space, prefer to work from a standing position, and want to maximize a three-season crop yield.
Converting the tall bed into a hoop garden for spring can jump-start cool crop production and extends the growing season in the winter.
In addition to planning the number and type of crops you will grow, there are planting practices that help you decide when and where to site crops within the boxes.
When planning your tall raised bed garden, decide if you want to grow plants from seeds, bulbs or seedlings.
To calculate the number of plants you will need and the space they will require, read the plant growth characteristics provided on seed packages or plant tags to map out the amount of space each plant requires for optimal growth and yield.
Check plant heights to avoid having tall plants shade shorter ones. Determine whether a plant has a long, short or spreading root system, and note the size of the foliage to prevent overcrowding, shading and spreading.
If possible, plant crops with similar cultural requirements, such as soil moisture, near each other. Incorporate companion plants that attract beneficial insects and pollinators or repel unwelcome pests.
Planting practices, such as interplanting, succession planting and relay planting, can augment or boost your yield.
Interplanting is growing two or more vegetables in the same space, at the same time. For example, plant a fast-growing crop, like radishes, with a slow-growing crop, such as chard. After harvesting the radishes, you can fill the vacant space with another crop as the chard continues to mature.
Succession planting is growing two or more plants, one after another, in the same space. For example, plant a cold-season crop, like lettuce, and after harvesting it, re-plant that area with a heat-loving crop, like peppers. Often, after the heat-loving crop is harvested, there is sufficient time left in the growing season to plant a second cool-season crop. Always check days to maturity when succession planting to avoid frost damage.
Relay planting entails overlapping planting times of only one type of vegetable. New plantings are made continuously, often at two-week intervals, throughout the growing season for an extended harvest. Green beans are frequently planted in this fashion. A variation of this technique is planting early, mid-season and late varieties of the same crop.
Growing crops vertically is another way to increase yield. A section of cattle fence, securely attached to the long side of a bed, can support vining plants with heavier fruits such as muskmelons and winter squash. Trellises or obelisks are options for vining crops with lighter fruits and vegetables.
Tall raised bed gardens can help you produce a bountiful harvest by selecting appropriate crops and employing various planting techniques. With time, patience and perseverance, your garden will reward you with a bountiful harvest all summer long.
If you have questions about gardening-related practices, call the Master Gardeners of Butler County Garden Hotline at 724-287 4761, ext. 7, or email the Master Gardeners at butlermg@psu.edu.
Corbie Eissler is a Penn State Extension Butler County Master Gardener.
