To fill a raised garden bed, start with a layer of top soil. You can also mix in yard waste such as leaves and grass clippings. 

 Then, amend the soil with compost or other nutrients tailored to the specific needs of the plants. Finally, water the soil until it is damp but not saturated. This will help ensure that there is plenty of oxygen in the soil for healthy root development.

It is true that metal planters will heat up in direct sunlight. Although it does not get hot enough to cause damage to roots, and it will not hurt your plant growth. 

Yes, you can put straw at the bottom of your raised garden bed for several beneficial reasons. Straw adds an extra layer of weed surpression . It also helps to keep the soil loose and aerated and can act as a barrier against weeds. Finally, it helps to retain moisture in the soil, making it easier for plants to access water when needed.

Yes, you can put a raised garden bed over grass. This is beneficial as it helps prevent weeds from taking root and allows for better drainage of excess water. It also helps create a layer of insulation which keeps the soil at an optimal temperature for growing plants and vegetables. Furthermore, it helps reduce soil compaction as the raised garden bed does not touch the grass beneath it.

No, you do not need to create any special foundation for your raised bed. All you need to do is ensure it is as level as possible to keep the bed sturdy and draining properly. 

No, raised garden beds do not need to be tilled. Raised garden beds are filled with a nutrient-rich soil mix and planted directly on top of the bed, allowing for a hassle-free gardening experience. Due to their elevated nature, weeds are prevented from taking root more easily than if they were grown in traditional, flat gardens. Additionally, the soil can be amended with additional compost and nutrients as needed rather than tilling the entire bed each time.

For tomatoes, raised garden beds should be at least 10 inches deep or deeper. This will help ensure that the plants have sufficient space to grow and develop strong root systems. Additionally, the soil will need to be amended with compost and other nutrients tailored to the specific needs of the plant.

For general plants, raised garden beds should be at least 8 inches deep. This provides enough space for the roots to spread out and provide sufficient aeration and water absorption. Additionally, this depth allows for the soil to hold more nutrients which will help the plants grow healthier and stronger.