Actually, I dont think I can even qualify as a novice :( I have a black thumb, I've managed to kill everything I try to grow for the past two years. The best plants Ive managed to produce are some hardy roses outside that take care of themselves, and an onion that was left unattended in the kitchen for too long. This year, the parents have taken pity on me and we've decided to "do it right" and will be making a raised garden for me to work in.

Can someone walk me through some of the basics of making a raised bed garden, and recommend some hard-to-kill plants to start with? These plants will be in the same yard as our big dog, so they need to be nontoxic to animals and thorn-free as well. Any and all help will be appreciated, we really have no idea where to start. Thanks everyone- Chi

Chi - I, too, always thought I had a black thumb and zero luck until I focused on plants that are correct for the environment in which I garden.  The garden flourished in spite of me!

If you're growing  ornamentals, pressure-treated lumber will do quite nicely to create a raised bed (there are several how-to articles on Learn2Grow). If you're growing vegetables and nervous about pressure-treated, then I'd suggest something simple like concrete block used to make decorative retaining walls.  The wood industry says any pressure treated after 1993 is safe for vegetables, but some folks still argue against it.

Vegetables and herbs are almost certainly require lots of sunshine and may vary depending on geographic location.  Best bet is to contact your county extension service for localized suggestions; you'll find seed and seedlings everywhere.

Ornamentals include basic hybrids that a local garden center expert can point out as sturdy and reliable or you can get into native plants (which would be my preference).  The catch here is that you're going to have track down species appropriate to your region and conditions.  This involves a bit of research, but you should be fairly easily able to come up with a list of appropriate species that you can obtain via native plant sales or from reputable online nurseries (check some of the articles on Learn2Grow) .  Either way, natives that are right for your backyard will reward you with comforting success.

Animals can be an issue, especially if the family dog likes to dig in nice soft loamy soil.  You may have to consider a lightweight barrier fence or some of those household sprays that encourage the pooch to move along.

Finally, remember that even the best gardeners sometimes err, sometimes over reach, and sometimes fall prey to bad turns of weather.  Take it one step at a time and you'll grow your way into expert class!