No, I am not talking about gardening while resting in your bed.

What are "raised beds?" The "raised" part means that the soil level in the bed is higher than its surroundings, and "bed" here implies a size small enough to cultivate without entering. The bed should be no wider than 4-feet, but the length can be whatever the gardener desires. The bed doesn't have to be framed, but it can be.

The reason so many people want to garden this way is the increased production. Studies have shown production can double in this small contained space versus traditional gardening. This is due to high density plantings.

Another reason for greater production is the improvement of soil conditions. Compaction in traditional gardens can reduce yields by as much as 50%.

One advantage to think about is the opportunity to do timely planting. You do not have to walk on the bed, thus mud should not delay planting.

Some guidelines to remember:

• Keep the bed narrow and match the length to the site
• North-south orientation is best for low growing crops
• Beds with taller crops might do well on an east-west axis. This way, low growing crops could be planted on the south side for full sun.
• Add 1/3 soil, 1/3 compost or peat, and 1/3 sand to make your own good growing medium.
• Add some lime and fertilizer the 1^st year and test the soil after your first growing season.

The advantages of raised bed gardening are endless. Beds elevated 2-feet or more can allow gardeners access without bending and you can even attach benches.

Imagine being able to start plants early in your raised bed using a clear plastic cover. Your raised bed becomes a cold frame and you never have to move the plants.

So to make your garden experience more enjoyable consider a raised bed.