control the soil conditions, or is the bottom of the bed left open to the ground underneath?
2006-12-03 18:52:35 · 9 answers · asked by rachel 2 in Home & Garden ➔ Garden & Landscape
I would leave the bottom open. This allows for better moisture management. Solid/sealed raised beds can drown a plant in excessively wet weather, and dry out too fast in hot/dry conditions. Depending on how deep the bed is, of course. Anything less than 18 inches deep could cause problems. You want to encourage deep root growth, particularly in perennial herbs like rosemary or oregano. Annual herbs like basil probably won't care.
The one and only risk with an open bed? Mint. That plant takes over everything. I recommend keeping mint in a pot. That includes relatives of mint, like catnip.
2006-12-04 01:44:55 · answer #1 · answered by jedi_n_dc 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Not only should you leave the bottom of the bed open, but it is always best to dig the bottom soil and add horticultural grit and sand to help drainage before filling it with soil mixed with horticultural grit. The bed is best placed in a sunny position as most herbs enjoy well drained soil and a warm position. Take note of all advice already given about mint. Fennel can sometimes get too big and seed everywhere, so remove seeds before they spread.
2006-12-04 11:13:49 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Leave it open but put a layer of gritty soil in the bottom to aid drainage cos most herbs like to be in well drained soil. And as someone else said contain mint or it will take over! Enjoy
2006-12-04 03:02:55 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hi, The bottom of the soil bed should be left open to ground underneath. cheers.. happy farming..
2006-12-04 02:57:08 · answer #4 · answered by villager 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Mine is open to the ground but my mint is in a container to stop it taking over
2006-12-04 02:55:30 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
open to the ground in the underneath.
2006-12-04 03:35:59 · answer #6 · answered by ASK A.S. 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Better to leave it open to the ground below so it can drain properly.
2006-12-04 08:02:27 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
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2006-12-04 09:48:50 · answer #8 · answered by garden.lover 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you should put sand or gravel on the bottom to help draning. or you could run into small puddels forming and causing root rot.
2006-12-04 03:39:39 · answer #9 · answered by happyclown5769 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋