Description of practice
Use of raised beds is an agronomic method which seeks to create more favourable environmental conditions for germination and crop development. It can be used in areas of poor drainage, salt accumulation and strong wind erosion.
| Examples of how to use raised beds | Further information (see Note below) |
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Raised bedsRaised beds 1 m wide and 15 cm high are constructed to ease operations such as watering and weeding. They reduce water losses and keep roots from getting waterlogged. |
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Terra Preta raised garden bedsRaised beds made from Terra Preta (an anthrosol) are constructed perpendicular to the slope direction. Terra Preta is formed by layering organic matter with biochar (charcoal) and ash. The beds are highly fertile and can be used to grow crops in areas where the soil is severely degraded. |
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Double dug bedsInfertile sub-soil is excavated and replaced with topsoil mixed with farmyard manure to form the planting bed. The increased soil depth provides higher moisture retention in the rootzone. |
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Raised beds to enable farming in marshlandWide raised beds and ditches are constructed on marshy land. By building up the beds over a period of years it becomes possible to grow a variety plants and seedlings and the soil becomes stable enough to support tree crops. |
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Note: Most of the Further information links are to a full description of the example in the WOCAT database. However sometimes the link may be to similar practices or a research paper. Occasionally the link is to a commercial product in which case it should be understood that this does not imply any endorsement of the product by iSQAPER.