Build the raised bed yourself

The art of achieving high efficiency in a small space is particularly important for gardeners. Often in this context, the so-called raised bed is mentioned. And indeed, with a bit of skill, the harvest luck can be favorably influenced here.

A raised bed? what is that, actually?

Surely, as a hobby gardener you have already heard passionately from the raised bed. This is a small acreage that is raised in height and enclosed in wood or stones. Recommended dimensions are about three meters in length and one to one and a half meters in width. Mindful of the lowering of about 30 centimeters in the ground, the height should ultimately be selected waist up. Through the individual layers, it is possible to grow the plants faster and above all protected against frost and wild gear. In addition, the construction of the bed requires no special knowledge.

That is needed

The construction can succeed within a few hours. To be used Wooden boards or stones, which are composed similar to a box with open top. The bottom area should be about 20 to 30 inches into the ground. If you use wood as a material, then this should also have been treated weatherproof. Some gardeners trust to cover the bed from the inside with a strong tarp or foil. However, this step is not necessary for building materials that are environmentally compatible. If you work reasonably well, no earth can escape. The small and self-contained ecosystem thus remains intact.


The individual layers

The entire structure should reach a height of about 80 to 120 centimeters and be filled with different materials. Close to the ground Small animal wire designed to keep out voles. Come over it Branches and rough branches used in autumn pruning. Immediately it becomes a location bark layered. Just as well can here Shavings and chaff be placed by crushed wood. The third level is dense leaves formed, which is likely to be numerous shortly before the winter. Anyone who has it, can even make a fine location between mulch and foliage pine needles Apply. The conclusion, however, forms an approximately 20 centimeters thick accumulation of Compost soil or humus.

The benefits of the bed

But why should you bother with such a construction, when, as a rule, the plants can thrive equally on a conventional piece of garden? An argument for the raised bed lies in its unique nutrient density. The different layers combine a large number of substrates that decisively influence fertility. A second benefit of the bed is seen in the increased average temperature of the soil. It is also formed by the individual layers, in which small air spaces form and positive digester gases can arise. The usable area thus has its own ventilation, a heating system and the valuable content of a fertilizer.

What must be considered during construction?

By choosing the location you can continue to influence the success. The bed should be positioned in a southerly direction to absorb a high level of sunlight and heat. Wind-protected layers? adjacent to a hedge? are also worthwhile. The raised bed is erected in autumn, when the required materials for the individual layers are as fresh as possible. You can sit down a bit over the winter and before the first planting in the spring, bringing the plains together.

These plants thrive especially well on the raised bed

Basically, it is important to draw in the limited space only those plants that positively influence each other. Ornamental flowers usually do not cause any problems. If you want to grow vegetables, choose only those genera that have a high need for nutrients. These include cucumbers and celery, tomatoes, various cabbages and all kinds of herbs. If you like to nibble, you can also grow strawberries or small berry bushes in the raised bed. It is also possible to switch between different varieties throughout the year. So, if already existing, with which plants have you equipped your raised bed?

How to Build a Raised Garden Bed for Under $15! | April 2024