Homestead mailing list

[Gene GeRue <genegerue AT ruralize.com>]

On Jun 30, 2008, at 11:35 AM, Clansgian AT wmconnect.com wrote:

> > > The objection is often raised that one loses that much planting  
> > > space due to
> the sloped sides.  Not so, the sides are planted as well giving the  
> bed MORE
> planting surface than one with physical sides.
>
> Not trying to disparage sides, but only to dispell the myth that  
> they are
> necessary.

I agree completely. The original raised bed design is as you describe,  
simply sloped and shaped sides, which can be planted.

Boards rot out eventually. Treated wood is also a worry. Stone is too  
wide.

The reason I am heading in the direction of seriously-raised  
ferrocement beds--like kitchen counter height--is for protection  
against body traitorship, moles, armadillos, rabbits, groundhogs, and  
now the damned walnut roots. With the top edges outsloping, I think  
they may even repel squirrels. These beds will have solid concrete  
floors with screened drain holes out the low side, above the concrete  
mowing and standing edge.

Of course geriatric deer will also be able to garden without bending  
over.

These structures will also make good barricades from behind which to  
fire upon advancing city hordes.