How to Build a Raised Flower Bed

I love to create projects for myself around the house. This project is a raised flower bed in my front yard and this article will teach you how to build it.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Wall stone
• Foam board
• A 3 foot level
• Drip system tubing
• Fill dirt
• Gardening soil
• Flowers
• $300-$500

1. 
   Retaining Wall Stone

   DECIDE ON YOUR MATERIALS
   
   I chose stackable retaining wall bricks because they are easy to manipulate and do not require mortar. I purchased them at Home Depot.
   
   FROM HD:
   ~Build walls up to 2 Ft. total wall height.
   ~The leading choice for do-it-yourself projects.
   ~Ideal for larger tree rings, garden rings, garden terraces, and curved wall projects.
   ~Warm natural earth-tone colors.
   ~MFG Model # : 81166
   ~MFG Part # : 81166
   
   The stones were $1.59 each [three years ago :)] and I had Home Depot deliver them because of their weight.

2. 

   DECIDE WHERE TO BUILD
   
   Pick the place where you want to build your raised flowerbed. Decide if you want to run a drip system to it. If you do, you will need to install the drip first [not discussed].

3. 
   Stones stacked next to the patio I also built.

   PREPARE THE SITE
   
   Clear the area and make sure it is as level as possible. Place the stones as close to the site as possible. You don't want to carry them any farther than necessary.

4. 
   Take your time with the first row.

   SET THE FIRST ROW
   
   This was the hardest part for me. It will take you time to decide the shape of the wall and to get the stones level. TAKE YOUR TIME...use a long level and check it from all directions.

5. 
   Styrofoam Barrier

   COMPLETE THE REMAINING ROWS
   
   The remaining rows will go relatively quickly. You may have to break one or two bricks in half to complete rows.
   
   Also, if you are placing the planter against a block wall as I did, you should put up a styrofoam barrier so that the dirt and water do not compromise the block.

6. 
   We love our Raised Garden!

   COMPLETE THE PROJECT
   
   Once you have laid all of the stones, fill the planter will fill dirt, top it off with at least 12 inches of clean garden soil, and FINALLY place your plants!

Tips & Warnings

• Make this a fun project by getting your kids or grandkids involved.
• Raised gardens are great for bulbs and herbs.
• Unless you have a heavy duty truck don't try to haul the stones home yourself.
• Always wear protective glasses and gloves.

Resources

• The Home Depot