Part 2 of 4: Decision Criteria for Next Generation of Raised Garden Beds
How to assess and consider
Hi All,
Let me make clear that our Raised Garden bed research came about from the building our new farmstead; Roadstead Farms on Cape Cod. As we got into the criteria, that we’d use, the field broadened and so did our interest as we have used the Square Foot Gardening in 14 raised beds of 4’ X 8’ (see drone shot below).
Now, after 6 weeks we have nailed down the following details which you can use for your own evaluations…
Decision Criteria for Raised Garden Planting Beds
1. Structural Integrity & Materials
1.1 Material Durability – Resistance to rot, weather, and pests (e.g., cedar, metal, composite).
1.2 Non-Toxicity & Safety – Avoidance of chemically treated materials harmful to plants/humans.
1.3 Load-Bearing Capacity – Structural strength to support soil, water, and plant weight.
1.4 Height & Accessibility – Raised bed height suitable for user needs (e.g., wheelchair-accessible beds).
1.5 Corner & Frame Reinforcement – Use of brackets, screws, or interlocking joints for longevity.
2. Soil & Drainage Performance
2.1 Soil Quality Support – Ability to hold high-quality, nutrient-rich soil.
2.2 Drainage Efficiency – Proper water flow to prevent root rot or waterlogging.
2.3 Soil Depth Capacity – Adequate depth for plant roots (minimum 12-18 inches for deep-rooted crops).
2.4 Water Retention Balance – Maintains moisture without excessive evaporation.
3. Environmental Suitability
3.1 Sunlight Exposure Optimization – Placement for maximum light (6-8 hours recommended).
3.2 Wind & Microclimate Protection – Positioning relative to windbreaks or thermal mass.
3.3 Pathway Clearance & Ergonomics – Minimum spacing for movement and operational efficiency (2-3 feet clearance).
3.4 Ground Interface & Insulation – Base treatment for thermal regulation and soil insulation.
4. Irrigation & Water Management
4.1 Irrigation Compatibility – Suitability for drip systems, soaker hoses, or self-watering mechanisms.
4.2 Water Efficiency – Prevention of excess runoff while maintaining hydration.
4.3 Accessibility to Water Sources – Proximity to hoses, rainwater collection, or irrigation systems.
4.4 Mulching & Moisture Control – Use of cover materials to reduce evaporation and weed growth.
5. Pest & Weed Management
5.1 Burrowing Pest Protection – Use of hardware cloth or barriers against rodents and insects.
5.2 Weed Suppression – Application of landscape fabric, mulch, or no-dig methods.
5.3 Companion Planting Suitability – Design accommodating natural pest deterrents (e.g., marigolds).
5.4 Physical Barriers & Netting Support – Ability to integrate protective mesh, row covers, or fencing.
6. Seasonal & Maintenance Considerations
6.1 Crop Rotation & Soil Health Support – Designed for easy nutrient replenishment and rotation.
6.2 Protection from Seasonal Extremes – Ability to integrate cold frames, shade covers, or thermal regulation.
6.3 Ease of Soil Amendment – Accessibility for adding compost, fertilizers, or reconditioning.
6.4 Bed Size & Reachability – Width no more than 4 feet to allow ergonomic access from both sides.
7. Seating & Ergonomic Features
7.1 Built-In Seating Ledges – 6-12 inch-wide edge for sitting while gardening.
7.2 Raised Bed Height for Comfort – 30+ inches for reduced bending and back strain.
7.3 Standalone Bench Compatibility – Space allowance for adjacent seating.
7.4 User Ergonomics & Accessibility – Designed for ease of use by all age groups and abilities.
AHP Pairwise Comparison Considerations
Each primary category is weighed based on importance relative to the intended use case.
Within each category, sub-criteria are scored pairwise against each other to determine priority.
Use Case Scenarios (e.g., urban gardening, commercial farming, home use) can adjust weightings dynamically.
This structure ensures objective decision-making when selecting or designing raised planting beds within a decision support system using AHP. Would you like priority weight recommendations based on specific needs.
I. Market Garden Operations:
II. Elder Raised Gardening:
III. Cancer Patient Raised Gardens:
IV. Horticultural research
Until next time...
I am...
Phil Wilson...
And, here's to Elevating Your Gardening Experience!