Raised beds are a popular way to add character to a landscape design. They are also a great way to incorporate foliage and vegetation in problem areas with uneven elevation and less than desirable growing conditions. Raised beds can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they are constructed with different materials. When it comes to finding a landscaper for your Amherst, NH, raised beds, you should consider whether or not they can perform the design and construction specifications of the raised beds, in addition to ensuring the correct placement and maintenance of the plants. These tasks require an understanding of not only the design build process, but also the materials, elevation, placement, and environmental conditions of the landscape. All this needs to be designed in consideration of the type of plants or vegetation you plan on using.
Materials
Raised beds can be free-standing or incorporated into retaining walls and seat walls, as well as around pillars and columns, at pool locations, and just about anywhere else you can think of. With that being said, the type of materials you will utilize for the construction of the raised bed will need to be aesthetically pleasing. The materials will need to complement the existing style and décor. The materials will also need to be able to accommodate the plants going into it. This means that the depth and width of the bed is extremely important. The typical depth for garden plants is a minimum of 6”, with 12” being the ideal allowance for proper root growth. Sunlight exposure and watering conditions are other factors to consider when preparing for a raised bed.
Related: Our Top Masonry Recommendations for Your Landscape Project
Lumbar
Lumbar is a popular choice for the construction of a raised bed. Remember to be careful which lumbar you choose because some have toxins and other chemicals in them. If you are preparing a raised bed for growing edibles, then contaminated wood is not an option.
Concrete
Concrete is ideal for use in raised beds because this material will last a lifetime when properly constructed. Concrete is also sleek and uniform – offering defined lines and an overall clean appearance. Concrete can be tinted to match any décor. It is a material that is popular for use in contemporary and modern designs or around pool and patio areas.
Block and Pavers
Block and pavers are other materials that can bring foliage to areas that wouldn’t otherwise have any. For example, staying consistent and using the same materials for retaining walls and seat walls, as in the construction of the raised bed, will keep the outdoor hardscape looking uniform. This will also make the outdoor area appear larger. Incorporating plants around fire pit locations, outdoor kitchen areas, and at walkway or driveway locations by utilizing block and paver raised beds will quickly add value and style to your outdoor living areas.
Plantings
Edibles
Root vegetables and leafy greens, as well as onions and tomatoes, are popular veggies for raised beds. These edibles grow well in raised-bed environments.
Flowers
Perennials such as daylily and lavender are great choices for raised beds, but there are many options when it comes to flowering plants. Keep in mind that protection from the frigid winter months will need to be considered because roots are much more vulnerable to freeze in raised beds.
Related: Popular Plants to Incorporate Into Landscaping Projects
Trees and Shrubs
Fruit trees to boxwoods can be put in raised beds, allowing the option of defining spaces, creating privacy in areas, and bringing nature to outdoor living spaces and around an outdoor expanse. When designing raised beds in preparation for deep rooting and high-reaching trees and plants, placement is everything.
