Once your new raised beds are filled, the fun part can begin! Plant crops either from seeds or starts, keeping in mind which parts of your new garden area are most suited for certain plants based on sun/shade and proximity to your home.
Research which crops are companions, meaning they grow well together and support one another. Companion planting within the same raised bed will help you to maintain healthy plants and keep your soil healthy for more seasons.
If, when planting your raised vegetable garden beds, you find yourself running out of room, think vertically! You can maximize your growing space by training vining and trailing plants, like cucumbers, pole beans, and some squash, upwards onto a trellis.
After you have planted your raised beds, make sure that your plants are regularly watered. If the forecast doesn’t call for rain, you’ll have to determine how often your plants need watering. Some prefer a soggier environment than others, and figuring out the balance can take a bit of research and experience.
Collecting water in rain barrels is a good option for watering during drier times. Water collection for gardening purposes not only saves money, but many plants grow much better when watered with rainwater rather than treated water.
It won’t be long after planting that you’ll notice that weeds will be an issue. Pulling by hand or using garden tools such as hoes and trowels are the best ways to get rid of weeds organically.
Adding mulch to your raised vegetable garden beds is an excellent way to keep down a lot of the pesky weeds that will inevitably plague you throughout the growing season. Not only does mulch help tremendously with weed suppression, but it also helps to keep beds damp for a longer period, allowing you to cut back on watering.
Maintaining your crops throughout the growing season can be a lot of work, but it’s work that is both fun and rewarding. When your daily harvests begin, you’ll realize that all the thought and labor you’ve put into installing your raised beds was worth it. Few things beat picking fresh vegetables at peak ripeness right outside your door!