Getting High! A Raised Bed for Vegetables and More

"A raised bed is ideal for diligent gardeners who want to take care of their bodies but still don't want to forgo high yields. Because a raised bed offers exactly that: back-friendly gardening and higher yields.

A raised bed is the ideal growing ground for vegetables, herbs, fruits, and ornamental plants. In fact, a raised bed has almost no disadvantages and doesn't have to be expensively bought in specialized stores; it can easily be built yourself."

For plants to thrive in a raised bed, choosing the right spot in the garden is crucial. A location in partial shade or full sun is best. Many plants grown in raised beds love the sun and feel most comfortable in a warm, sheltered spot.

Another advantage for the location is a nearby water source. This prevents the strenuous hauling of watering cans, though a long garden hose within reach is perfectly sufficient. Once the ideal spot is found, measure the required base area and mark it with stones. Within this marked area, the lawn should be removed with a spade.

For your DIY raised bed, you'll need four Euro pallets. These should then be lined with pond liner. This prevents too much moisture from escaping the raised bed and simultaneously protects the wood. The liner should be attached to the wood so that a wooden edge remains at the top and the liner overhangs on the bottom sides.

Then, screw the pallets together at the sides using corner brackets, ensuring the foil-lined sides face inwards. Periodically check with a spirit level to make sure the pallets are still properly aligned. Finally, lay a grid on the bottom to protect the delicate plants from voles or other rodents.

The special thing about a raised bed is the nutrients that plants receive from its unique filling. This makes all the difference. First, the bottom is layered with sticks and branches. This ensures well-aerated soil. On top of the sticks, you can then place the grass sods that were removed earlier for the raised bed. This layer is followed by lawn clippings and/or compost. Finally, the raised bed is filled with potting soil. All together, this creates a very nutrient-rich soil that every plant will love. To prepare the raised bed for planting, water it thoroughly now. And then your raised bed is ready for fruits and vegetables, as well as ornamental plants.