Why is it necessary for the bed to be raised if that causes grade problems with surrounding features? The plant material itself can/will give height to the bed.

Because it was a better option than trying to amend the rocky hard existing soil yardvaark

Hard, rocky soil can be the straw that broke the camel's back. It's likely that if you put something against the fence, it will be an eyesore. It would be better if you could back off from the fence some amount before you place whatever will retain the garden soil. How high are we needing to go? Can the soil be bermed so that it does not need a retainer, or add height at the fence itself? How large an area? Who owns fence ... you or neighbor?

I would take advantage of that hard rocky soil, and randomly pile rocks up against the fence for a more natural look, and then put the good dirt up against that.

Suzi

multi levels with a lower level stepping up to the fence so it stil looks pretty.

Thanks for the good ideas ....Suzi I think I will do your rock idea...thats what the front of the border is... Don't know why I didn't think of continuing it!! Thanks!!