In-Ground vs Raised Beds vs Containers: Pros and Cons

Once you know where your garden should go, the next question is what kind of garden to build. In this episode, I walk through the three most common types of vegetable gardens — in-ground, raised beds, and containers — and talk honestly about the pros, cons, and tradeoffs of each. There’s no “best” option. Each type works better for different people, spaces, and expectations. This video is meant to help you understand the differences so you can set realistic expectations before you start building or planting. Covered in this episode: • What in-ground gardens do well (and where they struggle) • Why raised beds offer control and consistency • When containers make sense — and what they demand • Why most gardening frustration comes from mismatched expectations Next up in the series: Soil basics — what actually matters, what doesn’t, and what’s overhyped. ⸻ 🪴 About This Series Garden Basics is a collection of short, focused videos designed to help new gardeners build confidence. No hype, no gimmicks—just calm, practical advice based on decades of hands-on experience. –––––––––––––––––––––––––– Checkout more Garden Basics with Dave    • Garden Basics with Dave   –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 🌱 More from Gastronomic Gardener Hi, I’m Dave—gardener, cook, and student of the seasons. At Gastronomic Gardener, I bring together garden projects, practical growing tips, and simple cooking ideas straight from the backyard. From planting beds to DIY builds to dinner plates—it’s all connected. –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 📷 Instagram: @gastronomicgardener 📘 Facebook: Gastronomic Gardener –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 🌿 Tools I Actually Use All the Time: • Dramm Compact Shears – https://amzn.to/4dTcgNg • Nisaku Hori Hori Knife – https://amzn.to/4dVRNaN • True Temper Action Hoe – https://amzn.to/3FRuhPx • Opinel No. 07 Knife – https://amzn.to/45d550h • Bucket Boss Tool Pouch – https://amzn.to/4dYCkqz These are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools I actually use and trust. –––––––––––––––––––––––––– ⚠️ Gardening Zone Info All advice is based on personal experience gardening in USDA Zone 5 (Midwest). Conditions vary—so adjust for your local climate, try new things, and above all, enjoy the process. #GardeningBasics #BeginnerGardening #Zone5Gardening #MidwestGardener #GastronomicGardener