Some of the different types of material that can be used for raised bed construction include: top to bottom, sand bags; straw bales, and c-purlin.

Also included is detailed information on topics such as plant spacing, crop support structures, fertilizer and water management, and season-extending technology developed specifically for the kinds of beds outlined here.

This publication is not intended to be a general gardening guide. Indeed, there are hundreds of those references available at local libraries and bookstores. Several excellent raised bed gardening references also are listed in the appendix.

Varieties and pest control recommendations are not included in this publication. Because of the variable nature of these topics, it is suggested the reader contact their local Cooperative Extension office for the most up-to-date information.

Gardeners don't have to be professional builders to construct and outfit the beds described in this manual. Most of the work can be accomplished with hand tools. A few power tools and specialized equipment are required in some situations. If these tools aren't available in the garage or work shed, don't panic. All of them are available through equipment rental stores.

Enough talk – let's get started!