One of the easiest ways of growing veg in a small space, such as a back garden, is by using raised beds.

This is a method of growing plants above ground level, either in pots or by enclosing an area in a frame, generally wooden.

Not only do raised beds provide a very efficient use of space, they are excellent for gardens with poor or clay soil, require less digging, make weeding easier and you can walk all the way around them without compacting the soil.

They're also easier to maintain if you find bending down a chore.

You can make your own using old wooden boards (although they need to be treated or they'll rot), building blocks or bricks.

Alternatively, you can buy ready-made beds sold as flatpacks you assemble.

Fountain Timber Products at Backwell in North Somerset, sells two sizes of raised bed made from pressurised treated timber. The standard bed (1.2m by 1.8m) costs £48.93 and the large one (2.4m by 1.8m) is £70.46. They can also supply the soil, have cold frames to fit over the standard beds and they will deliver.

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