Above ground gardening is becoming increasingly popular among gardening enthusiasts and novices alike. This method offers unique benefits, such as improved accessibility, better soil drainage, and the ability to customize the growing environment. Whether you have limited space, want to bypass poor soil conditions, or simply wish to garden without bending down, planting a garden above ground could be your ideal solution. This article will guide you through the process of creating your own above ground garden, providing you with expert tips and practical advice to make it thrive.
Understanding Above Ground Gardening
Above ground gardening typically involves growing plants in containers, raised beds, or vertical gardens. The core advantages of this gardening technique make it appealing for various reasons:
Accessibility: Gardeners with physical limitations or those who simply prefer not to kneel or bend can easily tend to plants in raised beds or containers.
Soil Quality: Poor native soil can be a significant barrier to gardening. Above ground gardening allows you to fill your container or raised bed with high-quality soil and amendments to promote healthy plant growth.
Extended Growing Season: Above ground gardens tend to warm faster in the spring, allowing for earlier planting, and they can also be covered easily to extend the growing season into fall.
Choosing Your Gardening Method
Before you start planting, you need to decide on the method of above ground gardening that suits you best. Here are a few options to consider:
Raised Beds
Raised beds are essentially a garden in a box. They can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, stone, or metal, and can be designed in various shapes and sizes.
Benefits:
– Improved drainage: Water drains better from raised beds than from traditional ground plots.
– Soil control: You can control the soil quality more effectively.
– Aesthetic appeal: A well-constructed raised bed can enhance garden beauty.
Containers
Container gardening involves planting in pots, tubs, or other vessels.
Benefits:
– Flexibility: You can rearrange containers as desired, which is perfect for small spaces.
– Soil management: Like raised beds, you can customize the soil mix for optimal growth.
– Various styles: Containers come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, allowing for creative expression.
Vertical Gardens
Vertical gardens involve growing plants upwards rather than outwards, making them an excellent option for those with limited space.
Benefits:
– Space-saving: Ideal for urban settings where ground space is limited.
– Unique display: Vertical gardens can transform walls and fences into lush green backdrops.
– Accessibility: Easy to reach for watering and harvesting.
Planning Your Above Ground Garden
Once you’ve decided on your preferred method, it’s time to plan your garden effectively. Consider the following factors:
Choosing the Right Location
The location of your garden is critical for its success. Here are some key points to consider:
- Sunlight: Most vegetables and flowering plants require at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Observe your yard throughout the day to find the sunniest spot.
- Water Accessibility: Make sure your garden is close to a water source. Above ground gardens typically require more frequent watering than traditional in-ground gardens.
- Wind Protection: If your area is prone to high winds, choose a location that offers some shelter or consider installing a windbreak.
Selecting Your Plants
The type of plants you select will depend on several factors:
- Climate: Research plants that thrive in your local climate zone.
- Space: Ensure that the plants you choose are suitable for the size of your above ground garden.
- Growth habits: Consider whether you want annuals (replanted each year), perennials (come back year after year), or a mix.
Popular Plants for Above Ground Gardens
- Vegetables: Tomatoes, peppers, lettuce, cucumbers, and radishes are all excellent choices for both raised beds and containers.
- Herbs: Basil, parsley, cilantro, and mint thrive in above ground settings and often benefit from the improved drainage.
- Flowers: Marigolds, petunias, and zinnias add color and can also attract beneficial insects.
Building Your Above Ground Garden
Now that you’ve planned your garden, it’s time to start creating it. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on the method you’ve chosen:
Setting Up Raised Beds
- Choose a location: Find a flat, sunny spot in your yard.
- Decide on dimensions: A common size for raised beds is 4 feet wide by 8 feet long and 12-18 inches deep.
- Select materials: Use untreated wood (cedar or redwood), concrete blocks, or recycled bricks for construction. Avoid treated lumber, as chemicals can leach into the soil.
- Build the frame: Construct the sides with corner brackets or screws. Ensure the structure is sturdy and level.
- Fill the bed: Use a mix of quality soil, compost, and organic matter to fill your raised bed. A common mix is one-third compost, one-third peat moss, and one-third vermiculite.
Creating Container Gardens
- Select your containers: Choose pots or other vessels with drainage holes. Terracotta, plastic, and ceramic are all great options.
- Choose your soil: Use a high-quality potting mix that retains moisture while allowing for proper drainage.
- Arrange your plants: Consider the mature size of each plant and arrange them accordingly, taller plants should be placed in the back or center, with shorter plants in the front.
- Water thoroughly: After planting, water each container until water drains from the bottom.
Designing Vertical Gardens
- Choose a structure: You can build a wooden frame, use a trellis, or purchase a pre-made vertical garden planter.
- Select the growing medium: Use a lightweight potting mix suited for vertical gardening. Incorporate materials that provide good drainage.
- Plant your selections: Space your plants according to their growth habits. Ensure climbing plants have something to grab onto.
- Water regularly: Vertical gardens may dry out faster, so monitor moisture levels closely.
Caring for Your Above Ground Garden
Once your garden is established, ongoing care will help it flourish.
Watering
Above ground gardens often require more frequent watering than traditional ones. Depending on the weather and the type of plants, you may need to water daily or every couple of days.
Tip: Water in the early morning or late afternoon to minimize evaporation.
Fertilizing
Regular feeding can help ensure your plants have the necessary nutrients. Use an organic fertilizer according to the needs of your plants.
Pest Control
Keep an eye out for pests and diseases. Use companion planting, natural barriers, or organic sprays to protect your garden from unwanted invaders.
Harvesting Your Above Ground Garden
Harvesting is one of the most rewarding aspects of gardening. Each plant has its harvest time, and knowing when to pick will enhance the quality of your produce. Here are some general tips:
- Vegetables: Harvest vegetables when they are ripe and before they become overgrown. Regular harvest encourages further production.
- Herbs: Snip herbs regularly to promote bushy growth.
- Flowers: Cut flowers in the morning for longer vase life and to encourage more blooming.
Conclusion
Elevating your gardening practice with above ground techniques can transform your outdoor space into a lush, fruitful oasis. Whether you choose raised beds, containers, or vertical gardens, the flexibility, and accessibility of above ground gardening open new doors for all gardening enthusiasts. With ample planning, preparation, and care, your garden will thrive, yielding beautiful plants and bountiful harvests.
So, get your hands dirty, embrace your creativity, and embark on your above ground gardening journey today!
What are the benefits of above ground gardening?
Above ground gardening offers several benefits, including better soil drainage and improved access for gardeners. When plants are elevated, their roots are less likely to become waterlogged, which can lead to root rot and other issues. Additionally, raised beds or containers can provide a more ergonomic gardening experience, reducing the strain on your back and knees while you work.
Another advantage of above ground gardening is increased control over the soil quality. By using a crafted soil mix, gardeners can ensure their plants have the best possible nutrients and pH levels. This is especially beneficial for growing in areas with poor native soil or in urban settings where soil contamination may be a concern. Elevated garden beds can also prevent certain pests from accessing your plants more easily.
What materials are best for building raised garden beds?
When it comes to building raised garden beds, there are several materials to choose from. Wood is the most common option, with untreated cedar or redwood being preferred due to their natural resistance to rot and insects. Other wood types can also be used, but it’s essential to avoid chemically treated lumber, as the chemicals may leach into the soil and harm plants.
Apart from wood, other materials like metal, concrete, or stone can also be employed for constructing raised beds. Metal raised beds are durable and can add a modern aesthetic, while concrete blocks offer a substantial and sturdy option. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages, such as cost, weight, and appearance, so consider your specific needs and preferences when selecting the best option for your garden.
How deep should my above ground garden be?
The depth of your above ground garden largely depends on the types of plants you wish to grow. For most vegetables, a depth of 12 to 18 inches is sufficient. This depth allows for adequate root growth and soil depth to retain moisture while giving the roots space to spread out. For deeper-rooted plants like carrots or potatoes, a depth of 18 to 24 inches may be necessary to accommodate their growth requirements.
In addition to the depth of the bed, consider the type of soil you’ll be filling it with. A mix of topsoil, compost, and well-rotted organic matter can provide the ideal environment for your plants. Additionally, ensure the bed has proper drainage; if you live in a very rainy area or have a particularly heavy soil type, you may want to create drainage holes in the bottom of the raised bed to prevent water logging.
What types of plants are best suited for above ground gardening?
Above ground gardening is versatile and supports a wide range of plants, including vegetables, herbs, and flowers. For beginners, fast-growing plants such as lettuce, spinach, and radishes can be very rewarding. These crops thrive in raised beds, as they prefer well-drained soil and can be harvested multiple times throughout the growing season.
In addition to leafy greens, many root vegetables, such as carrots, beets, and potatoes, also flourish in elevated beds. You’re not limited to vegetables, though; herbs like basil, cilantro, and thyme thrive in containers or raised beds, making them easy to access for culinary uses. Choose plants that suit your climate and ensure there’s enough sunlight available for optimal growth.
How do I maintain my above ground garden?
Maintaining an above ground garden involves regular tasks such as watering, weeding, and fertilizing. Because raised beds can dry out faster than traditional in-ground gardens, it’s essential to monitor moisture levels and irrigate accordingly. Mulching can help retain moisture and suppress weeds, reducing the time spent on maintenance.
Fertilizing your raised bed is equally important. Using organic compost or a balanced fertilizer can support soil health and encourage strong plant growth. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests or diseases, and address any issues promptly. Taking time for maintenance not only boosts plant health but also enhances the overall productivity of your above ground garden.
Can I grow perennial plants in raised beds?
Yes, you can absolutely grow perennial plants in raised beds. Many gardeners choose to include perennials for their long-term benefits and lower maintenance after the first growing season. Perennials such as asparagus, rhubarb, and various herbs can thrive in an above ground garden and provide returns year after year without needing to be replanted.
When planning to grow perennials, consider the layout of your raised bed. It is ideal to place taller perennials towards the back or center of the bed to avoid shading smaller plants, thus optimizing space and sunlight for all crops. Additionally, ensure that the perennial plants you choose are suitable for your climate zone to ensure their success in an elevated garden setting.
How should I water my above ground garden?
Watering your above ground garden requires a balanced approach, ensuring that plants receive sufficient hydration without becoming waterlogged. It’s essential to check the soil moisture regularly, as raised beds may require more frequent watering than traditional in-ground gardens. A good rule of thumb is to water deeply and less often, encouraging deep root development.
Using drip irrigation systems or soaker hoses can be a beneficial method for watering elevated gardens, as these techniques deliver moisture directly to the soil without wetting the foliage, minimizing the risk of fungal diseases. Additionally, during particularly hot spells or windy weather, you may need to adjust your watering schedule to maintain the health of your plants, as elevated beds may dry out quicker under extreme conditions.
What should I do during the off-season for my above ground garden?
During the off-season, there are several steps you can take to prepare your above ground garden for the next growing season. One key task is to clean out the beds, removing any dead plants, weeds, or debris that can harbor pests and diseases. This will help maintain a healthy environment when planting resumes. Additionally, adding a layer of compost or mulch can enrich the soil while breaking down over the winter months.
Another essential aspect of off-season care is to protect your raised beds from harsh winter elements. Using row covers or frost blankets can shield perennial plants from extreme cold. If you’ve grown annuals, consider planting cover crops, such as clover or rye, which can enhance soil fertility and structure over the winter. Following these practices ensures that when spring arrives, your garden will be ready to flourish.