How to Build Raised Beds With Cinder Blocks
Raised bed gardening makes it easier for the gardener to control soil quality, moisture levels and weeds, resulting in better production in a smaller space. You can build a raised bed out of almost any material, including cinder blocks. Cinder blocks are sturdy, inexpensive and easy to work with. They don't rot and don't require a lot of extra support. The concrete in cinder blocks can help keep your garden warmer in cooler months and cooler in warmer months. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Mark off the space for your raised bed with the string and stakes. Make your raised bed no more than two or three blocks wide so that you can easily reach across it to work the bed without stepping into the garden.
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2
Begin placing the first row of cinder blocks. Dig down with the shovel if necessary to keep the blocks level. Check with the level as your work.
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3
Stack the second row of blocks on top of the first. For the sturdiest wall, stagger the placing of the blocks so that the seams where two blocks meet don't line up.
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4
Hammer the rebar through the holes in the blocks into the ground at each corner of the bed. This will keep the corners square and provide extra support for the bed.
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5
Fill your raised bed with soil mixed with compost.
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Tips & Warnings
You can fill the spaces in the cinder blocks with soil or gravel if you like, though this isn't necessary.
