We built the raised beds after kids were no longer using the yard. Shortly after we planted our first crops, the rats and squirrels moved in. In the interest of exercising IPM principles, we built an exclusion system.
Each of the eight separate units can articulate up and away to give access. There are no gaps larger than a ½ inch.
The wood frames were always considered the prototypes, as they are heavy and will be subject to wood rot. The replacement units will be 100% aluminum, including the fasteners and fittings. They are much lighter and should last past our lifetimes.
The beds are constructed of untreated redwood. We intend to let the redwood beds eventually melt into the ground and will not replace or repair them. The aluminum will go to recycle. The roots of the magnolia tree have long since moved in, and that’s fine.
The beds are currently supporting tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, asparagus, artichoke, bok choy and eggplant. The garden overall includes four types of citrus, four of stone fruit, potatoes, strawberry guava, pineapples, salad greens, and herbs.
May 2026 MGOC Garden Tour 
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