"Chris" ] wrote in message
]...
Why are raised beds raised?

I can see the point of separating the beds from the paths - so that you
can access the beds without treading on the earth.

What is the purpose of having the soil level higher than the surrounding
land?
--

It depends on your requirements. If you raise it high enough, wheelchair
gardeners can use it. If you put membrane under it, that will help with
perennial weeds. If your soil is prone to waterlogging, it will help with
drainage. You can put a mesh cover over it to keep out the pest you're most
concerned about. It stops you inadvertently treading on seedlings. But No 1
is as you surmise, ease of maintenance. You can get all round it to work.
It's much less disheartening to look at a raised bed full of weeds than an
entire garden or allotment full of weeds.

And I'm sure there will be a few more I haven't mentioned.

Steve