Elevated vs. Raised Garden Beds

What Is a Raised Garden Bed?

A raised garden bed is a framed area that sits directly on the ground, typically with a wooden frame. However, composite or galvanized steel panels work equally well. Gardeners fill the container area with soil so that it rises above the surrounding terrain.

Raised beds are available in various sizes and shapes. Some are just a few inches high; others stand a foot or more. You can build your own or use raised garden bed kits that snap or screw together.

The Pros and Cons of Raised Garden Beds

Thinking about installing a raised garden bed? Before you dive in, it’s wise to weigh the pros and cons. Raised beds can simplify your gardening, but they come with their own set of trade-offs. Here's what you need to know.

Pros:

• Deep soil—great for root vegetables, tomatoes, and larger crops.
• Better drainage and faster soil warming in spring.
• Keeps your yard tidy and reduces soil compaction from foot traffic.
• Ideal for large-scale planting or permanent garden spaces.

Cons:

• Requires kneeling or bending to plant and harvest.
• Needs more ground space than elevated options.
• Still vulnerable to pests unless protected.

What Is an Elevated Garden Bed?

Think of an elevated garden bed like a table with soil. Unlike a raised garden bed, an elevated planter sits off the ground, supported by legs. The planter generally sits at waist or hip height.

Elevated garden beds are popular on patios, balconies, and other areas with limited ground space. They're a boon for urban gardeners, enabling them to grow fresh produce in areas like rooftops.

You’ll find them in materials like wood, plastic, and resin. You can even pick up metal elevated garden beds made of galvanized steel for strength and weather resistance.

The Pros and Cons of Elevated Planters

Elevated garden beds offer convenience. Built at standing height, they bring your garden to you—no bending, kneeling, or digging required. But like any solution, they come with their pros and cons. Let’s take a closer look.

Pros:

• Ergonomic—no stooping or crouching.
• Easier to control pests like slugs and rabbits.
• Great for people with limited mobility or back issues.
• Compact and easy to fit in smaller spaces.

Cons:

• Shallower soil limits root growth for larger vegetables.
• Soil dries out faster—requires more frequent watering.
• Higher cost per square foot compared to ground-level beds.

Elevated Garden Bed Kits

Some companies, like EarthBox®, even offer an elevated garden bed kit. It includes everything you need to start your elevated garden:

• Planter box
• Garden stand
• Wheels with a locking mechanism
• Aeration Screen
• Water Fill Tube
• Black & White Reversible Mulch Covers

As a bonus, the planter box is self-watering, helping to prevent over- or underwatering your plants. You also catch a break from having to water all the time.

Side-by-Side Comparison of Raised Beds

If you're comparing selected items while shopping, pay attention to the soil depth and build quality. Both options can look similar but perform differently.

Choosing the Right Material for Raised Beds

Material choice matters—both for aesthetics and long-term performance. Here's a quick breakdown of popular options:

Galvanized Steel

• Strong, modern, and rust-resistant.
• Works well in both raised garden beds and elevated planters.
• Withstands moisture and temperature swings.
• Often found in premium metal raised garden beds that justify their regular price with extended life spans.

Wood

• Traditional and visually appealing.
• Needs sealing or rot-resistant varieties, such as cedar.
• Tends to wear faster over time than steel or composite.

Resin/Plastic

• Lightweight and durable.
• Often used in elevated planters with features like built-in reservoirs or wheels.

Many modern raised garden bed kits feature steel or composite sides, making them easy to assemble without the need for tools. When comparing kits, check for liners, drainage holes, and modular extensions.

What Garden Bed is Right for You?

Still not sure which way to go? Let’s break it down by need.

1. Backyard Growers

If you have a gardening area, a raised garden bed can be a great choice. You can grow deep-rooted crops, such as carrots, potatoes, and tomatoes. You’ll have more soil volume and better drainage, especially if you opt for metal raised garden beds made of galvanized steel.

2. Urban Gardeners

For balcony growers, renters, or anyone with limited space, an elevated garden bed is a game-changer. You don’t need to dig, bend, or weed as much. Plus, a planter box can be an efficient and even stylish way to grow produce.

Bonus: You can move them seasonally for sun exposure.

3. People with Mobility Needs

The standing height of elevated planters means no more strain on your back or knees. Whether you’re recovering from injury, aging, or want comfort, an elevated garden bed is the way to go.

Raised Garden Beds Give You Control

At its heart, raised gardening is all about control. Both raised bed options we've presented give you more control over your soil quality, drainage, weed pressure, and pest management.

Standard raised beds let you build deep, nutrient-rich growing spaces—perfect for serious vegetable growers. You get more volume, more flexibility, and more room to scale your garden.

Elevated garden beds, on the other hand, offer control through convenience. You decide where they go, how high they sit, and how much effort you put in. For small spaces or ergonomic needs, they’re hard to beat.

EarthBox offers one of the best elevated garden beds. Its lab-test and top-rated planter boxes are at the core. The self-watering system eliminates guesswork, promoting healthy plants and optimal yields.