Raised bed garden

[mtscout]

I need some guidance as to design/construction of 'raised beds'. If you have any links to share-great!
Was thinking about using some 'rough cut fir planks' (4"x12"x10ft), but maybe untreated RR ties would be better?
Also, I am considering sub-excavating the soil beneath the beds a foot or so.
Thanks in advance.
Scout

[mtscout]

best width, single arm reach?
What's the best length?
How many vegetable plants per bed, or what are the best plants to put in a bed?
I intend to use native soil mixed with composted horse manure, (50-50), my local soils here are alluvial with a limestone base (8ft down). Drainage will be good.
In my part of the country I have alot of wind to contend with, so I'm building a fence and small garden shed leeward.
Will start with potatoes, carrots, onions, maybe some squash. My season is short- no corn. My elevation is 5500'.
scout

[Faye]

I use Square Foot Gardens because I am in a low place and it is to wet to plant when I need to and also have clay soil. I use the mix in the book.

[mtscout]

Faye
thanks! I found the web site for SFG
My area is very marginal for gardening.
And I am a newbe to farming.
Scout

[rivahmom]

SFG also has plans to construct a cold frame to your raised bed, extending your growing season some. Add that with a little composting manure and you may be able to grow corn, worth experimenting with anyway. Good Luck.