How to Build a Raised Flower Bed

Raised flower beds are a great cure all for any type of soil problem. You can even create them right on top of concrete! They create a perfect garden environment of good soil and perfect drainage. Here are the steps to a simple raised flower bed project.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• ground rake
• spade
• stakes
• shovel
• material to build the bed(concrete blocks, boards, rocks, etc.)
• topsoil
• compost

1. 

   Decide on and mark out the area for the flower bed. Also decide on how tall and what materials you plan to use to make your flower bed. If possible, dig the soil under the bed to loosen and aerate it.

2. 

   Using the stakes, mark the outline or corners of your bed. Position the stones or boards along the edges. (Boards will probably require a post or corner brackets to secure them in place.) In cold regions where heavy frost can occur, bury the bottom of your bed 1-3 inches below the soil' s surface.

3. 

   Add more layers to the raised bed if desired. However, keep simple beds such as this to no more than 18 inches in height to keep them from tumbling. Fill with good quality top soil and compost.

4. 

   Place your plants and water well. You can also mix in or sprinkle on time released fertilizer granules before or after you plant.

[showpup]

on 3/21/2008 I hope to add some raised flower beds this year. I agree with Green Garden Chic, nice photos!

[GreenGardenChic]

on 3/13/2008 I always love your articles and you have the best photos.

[AmandaMorin]

on 2/28/2008 Thanks for this article--we have a limited amount of room for a garden and want to make as much use of it as possible. I think having raised beds will help ensure we have optimal soil for growth.

[arianacherry99]

on 2/28/2008 Thanks for this informational article. This will be my second year getting to plant flowers at my house :) this is a good idea. Good job ;)

[WriterGig]

on 2/24/2008 Than you for the great directions, this is very nicely illustrated too. :)