If you buy a ready-made kit, the size of your raised bed is automatically specified by the manufacturer. However, if you want to build it yourself, the question arises as to the optimal “How high should a raised bed be?” Basically, the height and size of such a bed is up to each individual - after all, it's not just a practical question, but also a visual one. Ultimately, the construction must fit harmoniously into the garden. However, there are some guidelines that can be used to calculate the optimal, back-friendly height.
How high should a raised bed ideally be?
The ideal height of a raised bed depends on the height and arm length of the gardener. Recommended heights are between 85-90 cm for people 160 cm tall, 90-95 cm for 170 cm tall and so on. The optimal width is 120-140 cm for beds that can be reached on both sides and a maximum of 75 cm for adjacent beds.
Body size determines the height of the raised bed
The most important measurement for calculating the bed height is your height. Most finished raised beds are between 90 and 100 centimeters high, making them ideal for people between 160 and 180 centimeters tall. The recommended height of the bed for people with a height of 160 centimeters is 85 to 90 centimeters, for people with a height of 170 centimeters it is 90 to 95 centimeters and so on. The second important measurement is your individual arm length. As a rule, you can only reach about 60 to 70 centimeters, assuming you keep your back straight. As a result, a raised bed that can be reached on both sides should only be between 120 and 140 centimeters wide. However, if the bed is leaning against a building or something similar, it should not be deeper than 75 centimeters including the edge to make it easier to work with.
Raised beds with a seating edge can be lower
Some people prefer to work on their raised beds while sitting. In this case, you should try out which height suits you best. However, the height should be at least 50 centimeters, otherwise you will find it difficult to stand up. A wide, flat edge for comfortable sitting is also an important prerequisite for pleasant working. By the way, such a half-height bed is also highly recommended for children who can work on it standing up.
Pay attention to the selection of plants
However, it is not just body size and arm length that determine the optimal raised bed height - but also the planned type of planting. Raised beds with a normal or medium height are primarily suitable for low-growing crops. On the other hand, it is better to cultivate tall plants such as stake tomatoes in a raised bed that is a maximum of 50 centimeters high - or even lower. When choosing a raised bed and planting, pay attention to the expected growth height of the latter, otherwise you will have to use the ladder to harvest later.
How long should the bed be?
The ideal length of the bed depends on the construction of the frame (and its stability), but also on your need for growing space. However, before you have to make long walks around a long bed, it is better to set up several short beds. In addition, a width to length ratio of 1:2 to 1:4 looks much more harmonious and therefore more appealing.
Tip
When planning the raised bed, don't forget about accessibility: a path about 80 centimeters wide around the bed is comfortable and allows the use of a wheelbarrow.
