Those of you considering installing raised beds should consider how far you can reach. One of the best things about raised beds is the fluffiness of the soil because it isn't compacted by walking on it. Therefore, don't build your beds wider than you can reach. If you can access both sides, 4 feet is about maximum width for your bed. If you can get a Bobcat into your yard, have an operator ridge topsoil up, build a containment "box" around it, then rake the soil level. That way you don't have to haul tons of soil. A raised bed can also be easily adapted for season extension, putting chiles out early and leaving them late. See my raised beds at www.margaretlauterbach.com . They're described under Season Extending, but the best pix are under Handicapped Gardening. Margaret Lauterbach