A contained growing area where the soil surface is elevated above the surrounding ground level, typically by building a frame from wood, stone, or metal and filling it with soil and compost. Raised beds provide control over soil quality and drainage, warm up faster in spring, and reduce bending during garden work. They are used when the native soil is poor, compacted, contaminated, or poorly drained. Common dimensions are 1.0–1.2 m (3–4 ft) wide (for reach from both sides) and at least 15–30 cm (6–12 in) deep.