How to Make a Raised Bed Garden
There are many advantages to creating a raised bed garden. Raised bed gardens enjoy better drainage and an extended growing season, as the soil in a raised bed remains warmer than the soil at ground level. Even new gardeners can create their own raised bed garden.
Things You Will Need:
- Raised flower bed kit
- High-quality soil
- Compost
- Shovel
- Rake
- Choose your site. It is important that the raised bed be placed on a flat, level surface that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. The raised bed garden should also be located close to a water source.
- Mark the size and location of the raised bed garden. You can simply mark a line in the grass, or you can use stakes and string to map out the size and location for the new garden.
- Prepare the garden site by removing the top layer of sod and loosening the dirt that is underneath. This will help the plants' roots to grow and expand into the natural soil.
- Construct the raised bed. You can purchase flower bed kits at your local garden supply store. These kits are available in any number of materials, including plastic, wood and metal. Be sure to follow the directions for your particular kit to ensure that it is constructed properly.
- Mix a combination of high-quality potting soil and compost. This will create a favorable environment for growing plants. Once the soil is mixed, fill your flower bed with the mixture, leaving a 1-inch rim around the top of the bed. Use a rake to level the soil.
- Plant the flowers or vegetables. You are now ready to plant the flowers just as you would in a traditional garden. Use a shovel or trowel to dig a hole that is large enough for the seed or seedling. Gently place the plant into the hole and fill it in with soil. Press the soil into place gently using your hands.