Putting a raised bed against the house?

[jenfl]

I'm looking to start a small vegetable garden this fall (growing season in Florida). I think it would be really great to put it against the side of the house -- that gets morning sun but not the blazing afternoon sun. But I'm not sure if there's any reason that it might be bad.... our house is concrete, not wood, so I don't think it would damage it....

Is there a reason NOT to do this that I'm not thinking of?

[abiyhayil]

We did this two years ago, but never even thought maybe we shouldn't! So now I'm curious

[jenfl]

Originally Posted by abiyhayil

We did this two years ago, but never even thought maybe we shouldn't! So now I'm curious

So how did it work?

[kriket]

I front garden in what was once a flower bed that is right next to my house. I haven't had an issue. I would think unless you are growing trees, the roots aren't an issue.

[Turquesa]

Do you have a basement or crawlspace? Mold could be an issue there if water seeps in. Is there something you could put along the foundation to protect it?

ETA: The concrete may attract mold as well, but that's probably more of a squeamishness issue...

[jenfl]

Turquesa -- We have no basement or crawlspace (Florida soil doesn't support those). Our house is concrete block with stucco, no siding.

[goldfinches]

Since you don't have a basement or crawl, I don't think there would be a problem with moisture. But, how hard would it be for you to get to the back of the garden? Maybe just leave yourself a foot or so at the back to walk around and pick your tomatoes.

[Turquesa]

Originally Posted by jenfl

Turquesa -- We have no basement or crawlspace (Florida soil doesn't support those). Our house is concrete block with stucco, no siding.

Ah! Got it! I'm a couple thousand miles away and grossly uneducated about your area. If your beds are small (e.g. no more than 4' out from the house) you shouldn't have a problem reaching the stuff next to your house. I'd say go for it!

[kriket]

Originally Posted by Turquesa

\ If your beds are small (e.g. no more than 4' out from the house) you shouldn't have a problem reaching the stuff next to your house. I'd say go for it!

I'm having day dreams about reaching out my window for a fresh veggie! Nothing better than reading a good book on the couch and having a snack growing within arms reach!