A garden bed is a great way to maximize your garden space and gain better control over the soil. It reduces soil compaction and makes it easier to care for your plants.
Raised beds can be constructed from a wide range of materials, including wood, composite lumber, concrete blocks or brick. Railroad ties also work well, although be sure to line them with a barrier for protection against rust and other contaminants that may leach into the soil mix.
Preparation
The first step in preparing your garden bed is to determine the right spot for it. Plants prefer a garden bed that gets direct sunlight and runs east to west (for sun-loving plants) or north to south (for shade-loving plants).
Next, prepare the soil by turning it over. The best way to do this is with a spade or shovel.
This will expose weed seeds that have been buried to light and will help prevent them from germinating. If needed, treat your bed with a weed-and-feed product to deter weeds.
Once you’ve done this, add a layer of organic matter 2 to 3 inches thick. This will improve the soil by adding nutrients and by improving its structure.
Materials
When preparing your garden bed, there are several materials you need to choose from. You want to ensure your bed is strong, sturdy, and will last for a long time.
Generally, high-quality wood is the best choice for long-lasting raised beds. Cedar and redwood, for example, are both popular options that will last decades in most climates.
Another option is softwoods, like pine and spruce. While these types of woods are less durable, they are more affordable than hardwoods and can last for years with proper care.
Steel is another great option for a garden bed. It takes up less space, is thin, and doesn’t rust or heat up as much as other materials.
Design
The design of a garden bed should be tailored to your preferences and the size of your space. Ideally, beds should be no wider than four feet to accommodate easy access from either side for weeding and planting.
Raised garden beds are a great way to maximize gardening space and reduce back strain when tending the bed. They also allow for intensive gardening techniques, such as interplanting and succession planting.
Vegetables and herbs are more easily harvested from raised beds than they are on the ground. They also keep the soil from compacting and affecting drainage and health.
There are many different types of garden beds to choose from. If you’re unsure of which one will work best for your garden and growing goals, consider letting a certified Gardenary designer help you with your custom raised bed plan.
Installation
A garden bed is an essential element in a well-designed vegetable garden. The physical work of creating a garden bed within your lawn should be started in the early spring, once the soil has warmed enough to be worked.
Choosing a good site for your garden bed is also important. Most vegetables need six hours or more of sunlight per day to thrive, so choose an area that has good sun exposure.
If you have a lot of grass on your property, use an edging to prevent it from growing up the sides of your garden bed. Alternatively, you can create a border by laying down a weed barrier fabric and mulching over it.
If your garden bed will be located near a water source, you might want to install a soaker hose. These hoses can help you reduce your water usage by soaking plants directly. They’re a great option for gardeners on a budget, but be sure to buy a durable, toxin-free variety, and make sure the hoses are double-walled to avoid kinks.