Renting: Raised bed or in pots?

[hey mommy]

I want to start a garden, but since we rent I'm not sure if I should do it in pots or a raised bed.

I think with a raised bed, I'd have to get permission.

I heard spinach is good in fall, so I'm going to start with that.

Anything else good in fall/winter?

[greengirl19]

I'm attempting brussel sprouts and cauliflower this fall. And some greens (collards, chard, etc) but those might wait till early spring.

[Macky]

Have you priced out what it would cost to build raised beds? It's more than you might think. Pots that are large enough to support adequate root systems are expensive, too... plus you need to buy potting soil (regular soil doesn't have adequate drainage for pots).

What is the tilth of the natural soil in the yard? You can buy a basic test kit for $3 here (probably cheaper in the States) that will give you a general idea of pH, N, P and K levels. It's a cheap first step that could save you a LOT of money.