Overwintering in a raised bed?

[shaefins]

I'm wondering if a truly raised bed (completely off the ground by several feet) would make it harder to overwinter perennials like chives. I'm thinking the soil might freeze harder, because the air moves underneath the bed more easily, and so it's less insulated?

Or....would it be *easier* because there's less soil depth involved, and any sun we do get would warm the soil more easily?



Any input is appreciated - thanks! Oh - soil depth should be around 12-18 inches.

[rainbowgardener]

I think it would freeze a lot harder and be a lot more subject to freeze thaw cycles. It is like a big container. Plants have to be one to two zones more cold hardy to survive in a container than in the ground.

[shaefins]

Yep - that was my initial thought. Looks like a no go for overwintering chives in that bed (though I may leave that area alone this fall, just to see if a pleasant surprise might come next spring). Thanks for confirming!