Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Raised Garden Bed

How to Build a Raised Garden Bed

Whether you're an aspiring gardener or you have a green thumb, raised garden beds are an excellent addition to your garden. They help you organize your garden's layout, make weeding easier, and simplify harvesting your flowers or vegetables, which is especially helpful for those with mobility concerns. If you're unsure about how to build a raised garden bed, the process is straightforward and relatively inexpensive compared to purchasing a pre-built one. Gardening season in Worcester County, MA generally runs between early spring and the fall months, depending on your crops, so building your garden bed in the offseason ensures you're ready to plant once the weather warms up.

Tools and Materials Needed

The beauty of a raised garden bed is its convenience and control. Even gardeners with limited materials or knowledge can quickly design and build a raised garden bed that's right for their outdoor space. Gathering all the necessary tools and materials ensures a smooth construction process. For a standard 4x8-foot garden bed, which is a great size for beginners, you will need the following:

Materials

• Lumber – Two 2x12-inch boards, each 8 feet long, and two 2x12-inch boards, each 4 feet long. 
• Wood Screws – Three-inch outdoor screws are designed to withstand the outdoor elements.
• Cardboard (Optional) – Enough to cover the entire area of your garden bed to prevent weed growth.
• Soil – You'll need about one cubic yard of soil for your new raised garden bed.

Tools Needed

• Drill & Drill Bit
• Square
• Pencil
• Level
• Shovel or Rake

How to Build Garden Beds

With your materials and tools ready, it's time to start building. Follow this simple step-by-step process to assemble your raised garden bed. 

• Prepare the Location – It's crucial to choose a location that receives enough sunlight for your flowers or vegetables. Clear the area of any rocks or debris. Use a shovel to create a level foundation. 
• Layout Your Garden Bed – Lay out your four wooden boards on a flat surface in a rectangular shape. The two 8-foot boards will form the long sides, and the two 4-foot boards will be the short ends.
• Assemble the Frame – Drill pilot holes at the end of each 8-foot board where it will connect to the 4-foot board. Then drill your screws into the hole, connecting the two boards. Repeat this process on all four corners.
• Position – Position the frame to its final location. You can use the level to ensure it's even. Then place the cardboard to smother the grass and weeds, preventing their growth. Finally, you'll need to fill the garden bed with topsoil.

Ready. Set. Grow!

With your raised garden bed assembled, you're now ready to take your garden to the next level. Creating a dedicated gardening space with high-quality soil provides your plants with the optimal environment to thrive. You can find high-quality lumber for your DIY garden bed at Howe Lumber Co. Our skilled and experienced professionals can answer any questions you may have to ensure a successful gardening season. Visit us today to get started.