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["Lynda" <lurine AT com-pair.net>]

Ray, the most wonderful raised beds in the world are old freezers and 
fridges!  Bar none!  I put mine in groups of two with the ends facing each 
other.  The soil warms up sooner, doesn't freeze as soon and uses less 
water.

If you don't like the look of them, you can paint them (faux stone or brick 
looks cool [super easy to do] and white picket fences on the brown, gold and 
green ones) or you can run old cement board or siding or snow fencing also 
make them more attractive.  Of course, if they are in a backyard, you'll see 
them.

We are looking at espaliering fruit trees so we can get more in a smaller 
space.

Lynda
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Raymond Zentz" <rayzentz AT aim.com>
> My knees don't allow me to do the constant bending and kneeling, so I am 
> planning on high raised beds. Trying to decide whether or not to use 
> wooden frames, or concrete. I realize that I would have to replace wooden 
> frames rather often, unless I use pressure treated wood. Any problems with 
> the chemicals leaching into soil? Would you all recommend concrete frames?
>
> Also, I have read some works by mittleider, regarding "growboxes". Are any 
> of you familiar with his work? if so, what are your thoughts?
>
> The lot has a big, totally overgrown apple tree that produced lots of 
> fruit this year. I will be rather severely pruning it this winter. The big 
> grapevine has grown right into it, so that needs serious cutting back, as 
> well.
>
> There is a peach tree, as well, but no fruit was on it. We did have a late 
> frost last spring, so that may have done it in.
>
> I am planning on 3 additional peach trees, 2 apricot, 2 cherry, 2 plum, 
> and 3 more apple trees. Maybe a pear or two, as well...
>
> a small orchard, but tending fruit trees does not require as much bending 
> and kneeling...   ;-)
>
> Ray
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