{"id":12341,"date":"2019-12-13T15:46:10","date_gmt":"2019-12-13T04:46:10","guid":{"rendered":"\/\/www.airtasker.com\/blog\/?p=12341"},"modified":"2024-01-05T14:53:08","modified_gmt":"2024-01-05T03:53:08","slug":"raised-garden-bed-ideas","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.airtasker.com\/blog\/raised-garden-bed-ideas\/","title":{"rendered":"33+ Raised garden bed ideas – DIY garden beds"},"content":{"rendered":"

Looking for raised garden bed ideas? Raised garden beds are <\/span><\/span>simply<\/span><\/span> a way to grow plants in soil contained in some kind of structure that\u2019s higher than ground level<\/span><\/span>. This allows you much more control over soil texture and composition. Not only that, but raised beds help protect against weeds and they’re also quick to set up. Fans of raised bed gardening boast of thriving plants and bumper harvests all year round. It’s <\/span>just<\/span><\/span> a lovely, simple and <\/span>eco-friendly<\/span><\/span> way to grow your own herbs and veggies. <\/span>Oh, and raised beds also enable you to garden without the backbreaking work of traditional level garden beds<\/span><\/span>. <\/span>In fact, raised beds are also sometimes known as \u2018no-dig gardens\u2019, though of course some digging will still need to happen<\/span><\/span>!<\/span><\/p>\n

\"garden-bed-ideas-little-girl-gardening\"
Source: Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Raised beds can <\/span><\/span>be built<\/span><\/span> just<\/span><\/span> about anywhere, so they\u2019re perfect if you only have pavement, or if your natural soil is too rocky to be useful<\/span><\/span>. <\/span> There are so many ways that you can make your DIY raised boxes, so let\u2019s take a look at some different raised garden bed ideas<\/span><\/span>. I\u2019ve also got all the tips you need for how to start.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"garden-bed-ideas-rustic\"
Source: Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Layered like lasagne<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Raised beds make use of a layering technique is also known as \u2018lasagne gardening\u2019 or \u2018sheet mulching\u2019<\/span><\/span>. <\/span>This creates optimal growing conditions due to the fact the soil warms up fast, drains better, and doesn\u2019t get as compacted<\/span><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
Soil <\/span>is layered<\/span><\/span> with various \u2018amendments\u2019. <\/span>These are additions to the soil such as compost, etc, which create optimal, fertile soil that’s well-draining and well-aerated<\/span><\/span>. <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n

There is some overlap between \u201craised bed gardening\u201d and \u201cvertical gardening\u201d. It’s understandable since both make use of vertical space. The main difference is that raised beds take up horizontal space as well. <\/span>And then there’s that \u2018lasagne layering\u2019 that occurs with raised beds which might not <\/span><\/span>be utilised<\/span><\/span> in vertical gardening<\/span><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"garden-bed-ideas-seedlings\"
Source: Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\n
There is also some overlap with the concept of \u201csquare foot gardening\u201d. This is a form of raised bed gardening where the beds <\/span>are divided<\/span><\/span> into a grid of neat squares. Each square then features its own type of plant and <\/span>is managed<\/span><\/span> individually<\/span><\/span>. <\/span>Proponents of square foot gardening say the method generates higher yields and is easy and fast to set up<\/span><\/span>.<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\n
You can plant anything you like in a raised garden bed \u2013 herbs, veggies, flowers. <\/span>But raised garden beds are most often prized for their ability to provide a year-round veggie harvest<\/span><\/span>. <\/span>And they\u2019re also <\/span><\/span>aesthetically<\/span><\/span> pleasing as they keep your garden looking neat, organised and uncluttered<\/span><\/span>.<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\"garden-bed-ideas-herbs\"
Source: Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\n
Your raised bed will <\/span><\/span>typically<\/span><\/span> have some kind of enclosure or frame, which can <\/span><\/span>be made<\/span><\/span> as simple or as elaborate as you please<\/span><\/span>. Or the bed can be freeform, with soil and additions <\/span>simply<\/span><\/span> piled up high. Contained raised beds are perfect for kitchen gardens. It makes it so easy to grow fruits like strawberries, blueberries and raspberries. <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n

In the past, raised beds were usually contained in frames made only from wood. But nowadays you can use any of a wide range of materials to construct your frame. Here are some ideas to consider for creating your perfect raised garden bed.<\/p>\n

\"garden-bed-ideas-raised-bed-garden\"
Source: Photo by Vincent Wachowiak on Unsplash<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Raised garden bed ideas<\/h2>\n

1. Go for simple tiers<\/h3>\n

Raised beds can be as multi-tiered as you like. Some are especially decorative, resembling fountains and pagodas. But simple tiered structures are the ideal, neat way to make use of your space.<\/p>\n

2. Assemble a kit<\/h3>\n

These come as kits you can purchase, or you can construct one yourself. They\u2019re literally child\u2019s play to assemble.<\/p>\n

\"garden-bed-ideas-rhubarb\"
Source: Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

3. Elevate it on legs<\/h3>\n

These utilitarian inventions are so useful for anyone with back problems or accessibility needs<\/span><\/span>. They remove the endless bending work that <\/span>gardening<\/span><\/a> often involves. They can <\/span>be purchased<\/span><\/span> already constructed or are pretty simple to DIY.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Make it portable<\/h3>\n

Containers on wheels are the perfect raised garden beds for renters, thanks to their portability<\/span><\/span>. <\/span>You can buy a wheeled container, or construct one, or repurpose something like an old kitchen trolley<\/span><\/span>. <\/span>Just<\/span><\/span> make sure there\u2019s good drainage.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Stack some pallets<\/h3>\n

Pallet lovers who are handy with DIY will find pallets the perfect structure for a raised garden bed. And actually, if you have more pallets than you know what to do with, check out these ideas with pallet furniture<\/a>.<\/p>\n

6. Add a bed to a patio<\/h3>\n

Even a small patio can accommodate raised garden beds. This is a super modern look for any inner-city courtyard.<\/p>\n

7. Use raised beds as borders<\/h3>\n

Line your backyard with raised beds unobtrusively up against the wall. This is especially good for a narrow side yard.<\/p>\n

8. Have it custom made<\/h3>\n

Landscaping companies can help you design a raised bed garden to suit your unique space. You might incorporate water features for visual interest, or bench seating for functionality.<\/p>\n

9. Add greenhouse hoops<\/h3>\n

It\u2019s easy to turn a raised garden bed into a greenhouse using PVC pipe and clear polyethylene film. A greenhouse is great for a multi-season veggie garden. <\/span>It extends the plants\u2019 growing season, conserving moisture and protecting them from bugs and wildlife<\/span><\/span>. <\/span>On warm days, avoid overheating plants by removing the cover, if it is removable, or <\/span><\/span>simply<\/span><\/span> cutting slits for air vents<\/span><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"garden-bed-ideas-raised-with-cold-frame\"
Source: Photo by Isaac Smith on Unsplash<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

10. Go freeform<\/h3>\n

Nobody said raised beds had to have a certain neat, symmetrical shape. You may prefer the Zen of a freeform raised bed, with perimeters that you have constructed randomly or to suit a particular space.<\/p>\n

11. Grow a herb spiral<\/h3>\n

Spiral gardens are a permaculture technique, not <\/span><\/span>just<\/span><\/span> an eye-catching focal element in your yard<\/span><\/span>. This is because spiral gardens increase the usable planting area. And yet they don’t take up more space and plants <\/span>are kept<\/span><\/span> within reach. You can build one from almost anything, and you can even <\/span>just<\/span><\/span> mound the soil.<\/span><\/p>\n

12. Create an arbour<\/h3>\n

Adding a trellis or arbour above a raised bed makes harvesting sprawling veggies much easier<\/span><\/span>. <\/span>An arbour enables flowering vines somewhere to go, while the plants below aren\u2019t too deprived of sunshine<\/span><\/span>. <\/span>Simply<\/span><\/span> create an A-frame out of two bamboo poles leaning together, truss them together and then cover with garden netting<\/span><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

13. Make a beanstalk tepee<\/h3>\n

Much like an arbour, try a tepee idea on for size. The kids will love it.<\/p>\n

14. Terrace a sloping garden<\/h3>\n

Terracing an entire area is great for creating the illusion of a level garden if you have a sloped yard. Start by building up the beds in the lowest sections, then add shrubs at the back and perennials for colour and texture at the front.<\/p>\n

\"garden-bed-ideas-raised-bed\"
Source: Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Choosing the right material to construct the frame<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Keep in mind your climate, the purpose of your raised bed, and the aesthetics that appeal to you. Factors such as cost and ease of installation will also come into play. Here are some of your options.<\/p>\n

15. Timber<\/h3>\n

Wood beds are easy to construct and the material is cost-effective and accessible, making it the perfect choice for DIY raised beds.\u00a0 If you decide to go with wood, make sure you choose sustainably grown wood or reclaimed timber. Whatever lumber you pick, ensure it isn\u2019t treated with toxic chemicals (eg. older versions of treated pine contain copper and chrome arsenate, which you probably don\u2019t<\/em> want in your food). Railroad ties are best avoided in case they\u2019ve been treated with toxin-releasing creosote.<\/p>\n

Pine is often used as it’s the cheapest. But other timbers you might consider include jarrah or cypress. These are both <\/span>naturally<\/span><\/span> decay- and termite-resistant. You might also try spruce, which is durable. Or, consider cedar. It has natural rot and insect resistance.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
You could also look into the newer composite woods. These contain both wood fibres and recycled plastics and are especially durable. <\/span>And if you need help constructing your timber-raised garden beds, you can always hire a local <\/span><\/span>carpenter<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

16. Corrugated iron<\/h3>\n

Corrugated iron is another popular choice for DIY raised garden beds. You can find it in the roofing section of your hardware supplier.<\/p>\n

\"garden-bed-ideas-containers\"
Source: Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

17. Water troughs and stock tanks<\/h3>\n

These are an <\/span>increasingly<\/span><\/span> popular choice. <\/span>Animal feeding troughs or water troughs are great for an industrial\/urban chic vibe and as with other metals, also warm the soil<\/span><\/span>. They’re usually round or rectangular with rounded ends and come in a variety of sizes. They don\u2019t need assembly but will need you to drill plenty of drainage holes at the base. <\/span>Easily<\/span><\/span> available to <\/span>purchase<\/span><\/span> at feed stores, these are quite inexpensive and long-lasting. The only issue is that transportation to your home needs to <\/span>be arranged<\/span><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

18. Galvanised culverts<\/h3>\n

Used for drainage under roadways, galvanised culverts can be cut into sections to create planters. Ask at your local building supply store or search online. With culverts, you control the size and height of your bed, more so than with troughs and tanks. Once you\u2019ve located a suitable length of pipe, it will need to be cut into sections, and transported to your home. Easy to install and gives a contemporary vibe.<\/p>\n

19. Sheet metal<\/h3>\n

It’s industrial-style, with a modern aesthetic. <\/span>Sheet metal begins life a natural steel colour, weathering to a gorgeous rusty patina over time<\/span><\/span>. <\/span>It comes in sheets around \u00bc inch thick, giving it a slim profile rather than a bulky perimeter, and the sheets are <\/span><\/span>simply<\/span><\/span> shaped as desired<\/span><\/span>. The good thing about sheet metal is it adds heat to the soil, so can be helpful when plants need added heat to thrive.<\/span><\/p>\n

20. Masonry<\/h3>\n

Great as a permanent addition to your garden, these can be constructed by yourself, though usually a masonry crew is hired.<\/p>\n

If you’re on the hunt for some more edging inspiration, we’ve put over 50 different garden edging ideas<\/a> together for you to check out as well.<\/p>\n

21. Concrete blocks<\/h3>\n
\n
Stack them to your desired bed height, or mortar together and finish with surface treatments or capped tops<\/span><\/span>. Concrete blocks enable you to create your desired configuration <\/span>easily<\/span><\/span>. Finishing adds to the cost, which is otherwise <\/span>relatively<\/span><\/span> inexpensive. <\/span>Concrete blocks are durable and <\/span><\/span>easily<\/span><\/span> available and suit a variety of aesthetics, from urban to rustic<\/span><\/span>.<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\"garden-bed-ideas-tools\"
Source: Photo by cottonbro from Pexels<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

22. Rock and stone<\/h3>\n

Using these materials you can easily DIY a raised garden bed that has a casual, cottage-garden style. These are not permanent, as they are not mortared into place. Small boulders or large cobbles are merely stacked as desired.<\/p>\n

23. Natural free materials<\/h3>\n

You can construct a frame out of <\/span>freely<\/span><\/span> available materials such as logs or twigs, as seen below. Some DIYers have constructed a raised bed out of bales of hay or straw. <\/span>It’s <\/span><\/span>simply<\/span><\/span> piled into the desired configuration and filled with layers of soil and compost<\/span><\/span>. This provides up to a year of use as the straw decomposes, so you\u2019ll need to replace the bales <\/span>annually<\/span><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

24. Wicker panels<\/h3>\n

If the woven wicker look appeals to you, don\u2019t worry–nobody expects you to weave them yourself! You simply purchase panels to easily construct a frame.<\/p>\n

Want to find out more about planters that you can buy? We’ve got a dedicated guide about where to buy planter boxes<\/a> and approximate costs.<\/p>\n

25. Recycled and reclaimed materials<\/h3>\n

Found objects can hold a lot of charm\u2014or they can look kitsch\u2014you decide! <\/span>Some of the more <\/span><\/span>commonly<\/span><\/span> repurposed materials favoured for raised beds include milk crates, wine boxes and old barrels<\/span><\/span>. <\/span>Milk crates are often liked because of their portability and ready-made drainage and they can <\/span><\/span>be personalised<\/span><\/span> with paint<\/span><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

26. Vintage sacks around milk crates<\/h3>\n

Dress up milk crates with coarse vintage storage sacks for an inexpensive and rustic look.<\/p>\n

27. Tyres<\/h3>\n

Some people favour the use of old tyres to create eco-friendly recycled raised garden beds.<\/p>\n

28. Wagon wheel<\/h3>\n

Quite often repurposed into garden designs, wagon wheels are naturally segmented making it easy to divide up plants.<\/p>\n

29. Wheelbarrow<\/h3>\n

A box is not a box, and a raised garden bed can be created out of any kind of container, provided you ensure it has adequate drainage. Old wheelbarrows can look quaint and cottagey, as well as being nicely portable.<\/p>\n

30. Wine crates<\/h3>\n

Is there anything a wine crate cannot do? Separate your kitchen garden herbs neatly and keep everything portable with recycled wine boxes.<\/p>\n

31. Half barrels<\/h3>\n

For some, old wine barrels hold a particular aesthetic appeal and a row of them provides nice uniformity.<\/p>\n

32. Barrel full of flowers<\/h3>\n

Barrels look especially effective and romantic when planted up with flowers.<\/p>\n

33. Urban modular<\/h3>\n

Think you\u2019ve got no room for a garden? Think again! Modern planter designs can be constructed which make super-efficient use of your limited area. While not strictly a \u201craised bed\u201d in the traditional sense, they\u2019re still a fantastic way to make use of vertical space. There are many new urban garden modular designs, with endless configurations so you can customise them to your space. Some come as a building kit, others simply provide open-source plans online.<\/p>\n

Now let’s take a closer look at the actual construction process.<\/p>\n

How to build a raised garden bed<\/strong><\/h2>\n