I love reading posts of others' experiences with SFG, I always learn alot. Here is a brief description of my method, which I have used for three very bountiful seasons now. Everything in here is IMO; I can be described as a novice gardner at best. Picture URLs are at the bottom.

I built my boxes in a weekend out of 5/8 x 6" untreated cedar for about a third the cost of online kits. They have to be reinforced inside with wire to keep them from bulging. They still look brand new. I like the 4 x 12' size.

My boxes are open at the bottom and the sod was removed before installation. After much (mostly bad) experience with Earthboxes, Autopots, etc., I believe that to do well large vegetable plants must be in contact with the earth. Pests, disease, blight, burned up; you name it I had it. I use Mel's mix and usually top with about 3" of bought compost each spring.

Irrigation is a must here in western Kansas. I run PVC down each side and place misters about every foot. These are on a timer. I water heavily once a day unless it rains, which isn't often. I get supplies from the very nice folks at Dripdepot.com.

As you can see I'm very small scale. It's just me and the wife now. I've grown everything under the sun in these boxes but I always have too much of what I don't like and not enough ... you get the idea. This year I'm going to go with what I like and can't get at the store, which ain't much. I'm starting seeds indoors for the first time (another post), can't get the seedlings I like either.

That's enough blather. Lastly, I'm a firm believer in Mel's method. It works for me. Can't talk much though, as I've never tried it the other way. Here's some pics.

http://glennspictures56.shutterfly.com/187

http://glennspictures56.shutterfly.com/186

http://glennspictures56.shutterfly.com/185

Peace.