Sharing details on some future backyard plans, as well as details on how we plan to incorporate raised garden planter stands. Also sharing the pros and cons of these types of gardening beds.
Our Backyard & Future Gardening Plans
I have some really big plans for our little tiny backyard! Now that we’re in Florida, I want to fully embrace my plant-loving heart and add a mix of all of my lifelong favorites: citrus trees, bougainvillea, oleander, palms, herb gardens…you name it. Unfortunately I have a few challenges 😉
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The first is the size of our lot. Not only is it very small, but we also have very little plantable land (it’s mostly covered in pool pavers in the back). Additionally, we don’t actually have soil here. It’s all sand when you dig.
POOL DECK SOURCES: Woven Chaise Lounge Chairs | Reversible Outdoor Pillows | Pool Float (look for less here) | Outdoor Swivel Chairs
The next challenge is our HOA. They basically ban planting any of my dream plants in the ground, and have a very specific list of native plants we can use. We knew this going into purchasing a property in our neighborhood, so it’s not a surprise. However, they do allow these items to be potted so it gives me some alternatives, as you’ve seen in my recent flower pots I’ve planted!
PLANTER SOURCES: Concrete Planter | Oleander Topiary | Wave Petunias | Sweet Potato Vines | Asparagus Fern | Favorite Fertilizer
With our small yard, it actually works to my advantage to pot some of these items, because that means I can leverage areas that may otherwise not be plantable like our pavers and our covered porch! I also think this little spot by our outdoor shower has some potential to house some more plants (where the small planter is on the right below). Potentially something like this or this that allows me to take advantage of all the vertical space! I also considered something that would hang on the stair slat wall, but I don’t want to compromise the wood there.
Ultimately, I’d love to add a handful of compact trees, some more colorful perennials, a gardening station, and perhaps an arched trellis over to our pool equipment (the area to the right of the stairs in the image above). The trellis would also act as a support system for one of my favorite plants like jasmine or bougainvillea.
With that, we’re focusing this year on getting our garden growing. I’ve been doing a lot of research on raised garden planters and how they can help us add more of the plants we love to our yard! Specifically a spot to house all of my herbs and possibly to add some veggies and/or fruits!
Pros & Cons of Raised Gardens
In the world of gardening, raised garden plant stands have become increasingly popular among urban gardeners, enthusiasts with limited space, and those seeking to add an aesthetic touch to their green spaces. These elevated platforms offer a unique solution for growing plants, herbs, vegetables, and flowers, catering to various needs and preferences. However, like any gardening method, raised plant stands come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Benefits of Raised Gardens:
- Ergonomic Benefits: Raised garden plant stands alleviate the need to bend over, making gardening more accessible for individuals with back problems or mobility issues. This ergonomic advantage allows gardeners of all ages and abilities to enjoy planting and tending to their gardens without the physical strain associated with traditional ground-level gardening.
- Improved Drainage: One of the key benefits of raised garden plant stands is the enhanced drainage they offer. Elevated soil beds prevent waterlogging and root rot, conditions that can devastate plants. This improved drainage is especially beneficial for plants that require well-drained soil conditions to thrive.
- Pest and Weed Control: Raised stands can help reduce the invasion of pests and weeds. By elevating plants off the ground, it becomes more challenging for pests like slugs and snails to reach them. Additionally, the separation from the ground makes it easier to manage and prevent the spread of weeds, saving time and effort in garden maintenance.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Raised garden plant stands can add significant aesthetic value to your garden, balcony, or indoor space. They come in various designs, materials, and sizes, allowing gardeners to create visually appealing arrangements that enhance the overall look of their green space.
- Space Efficiency: For those with limited gardening space, raised plant stands offer an effective solution. They can be placed on balconies, patios, or even indoors, making it possible to grow a variety of plants in compact areas.
Cons of Raised Gardens:
- Initial Investment: One of the main drawbacks of raised garden plant stands is the initial cost. High-quality materials and designs can be expensive, and if you’re planning to set up multiple stands, the costs can add up quickly.
- Limited Growing Space: While raised stands are excellent for space efficiency, they also limit the amount of soil available for root growth. This can restrict the types of plants you can grow, especially larger species that require more root space.
- Maintenance and Durability: Depending on the material, raised garden plant stands may require regular maintenance to prevent weathering, rot, or rust. Wooden stands, for example, may need to be treated to withstand outdoor conditions, while metal stands could rust over time if not properly cared for.
- Watering Considerations: Elevated soil beds tend to dry out faster than ground-level gardens. This means raised plant stands may require more frequent watering, especially during hot, dry periods, to ensure plants receive adequate hydration.
Overall, raised garden plant stands offer a versatile and attractive option for gardeners looking to optimize their green spaces, particularly in urban settings or for those with physical limitations. While they present certain challenges such as cost and maintenance, the benefits of improved drainage, pest control, and aesthetic appeal make them a worthwhile consideration for many. As with any gardening endeavor, weighing the pros and cons in relation to your specific needs and conditions will help you make the best decision for your green space.
My Top Picks for Raised Garden Planter Stands
Following are some of the more chic raised garden planter stands I was able to find. I’ve included a variety of heights, widths, and price points to help you find the perfect raised garden planter stand for your own yard! Tap any of the images below to learn more about each item shown.
Other Gardening Posts You May Enjoy
Following are even more articles I’ve written related to gardening and flower pots. Tap any of the article titles below to read the full post.
- How to Plant Flowers in a Pot
- Summer Planter Ideas
- Front Porch Planter Ideas
- Outdoor Planters
- Amalfi Coast Inspired Pool and Cabana Design Plans
- Six Simple Ways to Boost Curb Appeal
- Outdoor Courtyard Ideas
- The Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Furniture and Decor
- Exterior Light Fixtures
- The Best Exterior White Paint Colors
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Such a beautiful space to work with! A self watering bed would come in handy with the amount of travel you do. Have you considered espaliered fruit trees in pots across the back wall? They come already trained in pots on a frame.
Thanks Carol! And I love the idea of potted espaliered fruit trees! I’ll have to check into that. It would definitely be a really pretty option too 🙂
What a lovely outdoor space. In the south, where it gets HOT, plastic and metal planters and raised beds quickly heat up and can damage the roots of plants. You might explore raised beds made from thick wood timbers that will provide more insulation from extreme heat. Also, if the beds are directly on the ground, there’s more insulation from radiant heat. And, of course, larger beds will retain moisture better than small beds. Can’t wait to see how it all turns out!
Not sure if Carol meant the same, are you able to plant in raised pots along your fence line? You could plant the jasmine there.