Starting your first raised bed is exciting — and a little intimidating. The good news? You don’t need to be an expert to get amazing results.
The secret is choosing plants that are low-maintenance, quick to grow, and forgiving for beginners.
1. Lettuce & Leafy Greens 🥬
Lettuce, spinach, and kale are some of the easiest plants to grow. They love the loose, nutrient-rich soil of a raised bed and don’t require much space.
Harvest the outer leaves regularly to keep them producing longer.
2. Cherry Tomatoes 🍅
Few things are as satisfying as picking your own sun-ripened tomatoes. Cherry varieties are especially easy and thrive in raised beds where the soil warms quickly.
Add a small cage or stake early to keep tomatoes supported as they grow.
3. Carrots 🥕
Carrots grow beautifully in the soft, deep soil of raised beds. You’ll avoid the stunted, misshapen roots that often happen in heavy ground soil.
Harvest the outer leaves regularly to keep them producing longer.
4. Herbs (Basil, Parsley, Chives) 🌿
Herbs are perfect for small spaces — and for beginners who want instant gratification. Many herbs grow fast and can be harvested for months.
Place your raised bed near the kitchen for easy access while cooking!
5. Snap Peas or Green Beans 🫛
These are fun, fast-growing plants that give you a big harvest for little effort. They love vertical space, so a simple trellis in your raised bed works wonders.
Pick peas and beans regularly to encourage more pods.
6. Zucchini 🥒
Zucchini is a prolific grower — just one plant can feed your whole family! Raised beds provide great drainage, helping prevent common diseases.
Give each plant space to sprawl, or train vines upward with a sturdy support.
7. Garlic & Onions 🧄
If you want low-effort crops that practically take care of themselves, garlic and onions are it. Plant in fall and harvest in summer for flavorful bulbs.
Choose well-draining soil and don’t overwater.
Getting Started with Gro-Rite Beds 🌱
All of these plants thrive in the controlled, fertile environment of Gro-Rite raised beds. With better drainage, fewer weeds, and easier soil management, your first growing season will be a success — no matter your skill level.
So grab your gloves, pick a few of these starter crops, and get ready to watch your garden flourish!