Perhaps the easiest way to grow vegetables is directly in the ground. This is particularly true if you want to plant low water use fruit trees, berries, perennial herbs and large vegetables such as winter squash. In general, vegetables grown in the ground require LESS water than those in raised beds because the imported soil in raised planters usually drains more quickly. Additionally, perennial plants in the ground develop deeper root structures, reducing the need for irrigation.

Whether in-ground or in planters, be sure to rotate your crops by growing different annual and biennial
vegetables in the same spot each year. This practice ensures that the soil does not become depleted of
any single nutrient or inadvertently nurture plant pathogens.