Raised bed garden systems are more expensive to build and install but their benefits and ease of use often make up for the added initial cost. A few of the benefits of raised garden beds include less weed pressure, quicker warming in the spring, easier on the back!, avoids problems with contaminated soil, and they have great drainage. When properly maintained, most garden vegetables love growing in raised beds, making them a great choice for backyard gardens. Raised bed gardens start at $600 for a 4x8 ft bed and include all materials, labor, and supplies required for the building and installation of the bed as well as soil, soil testing/amendments, compost, and mulch. Add-ons with additional costs include irrigation options, trellises, stakes/cages, covers for season extension/pest exclusion, and seedlings/seeds. Raised beds can be constructed out of a variety of materials and can be created to blend into your existing landscaping or designed to be the focal point of your yard. The final cost of raised bed gardens can vary significantly based on materials used and site circumstances.