Growing vegetables and flowers in raised beds can provide better drainage and higher yields. They make gardening possible in locations where plants could not normally be grown. Raised planter beds made from concrete blocks are relatively inexpensive to build. Planter beds that are one or two blocks tall will be stable without mortar. Mortar can be used for stronger or taller beds. Beds accessible from both sides can be 48 inches wide, while those accessible from one side should not be more than 24 inches.
Mark the perimeter of the raised bed on the ground. Measure the dimensions. Calculate the total number of blocks you need by dividing the perimeter by 16 inches, then multiply by 2.
Purchase blocks and stack them around the raised bed area.
Dig out enough soil so the blocks will be an inch below the surrounding soil. Level the soil inside the perimeter of the bed. Loosen the soil slightly so roots can penetrate it. Use a string line to make the sides straight.
Lay a single row of blocks around the perimeter of the bed. Make sure the row is straight and level. Adjust the dimensions as necessary to make the blocks fit. Square the corners with a carpenter's level.
Stack another row of blocks on top of the first, offsetting the blocks so the center of the top block is over a joint on the lower row.
Fill the bed with soil. Fill the spaces in the blocks for added stability.
Things You Will Need
- Measuring tape
- Concrete blocks
- Carpenter's level
- Garden soil
- To leave room for a wheelbarrow make 2- to 3-foot-wide paths between beds.
- If gophers or other burrowing animals are a problem in your garden line the bottom of the beds with hardware cloth.
- The bed can be built on a hard surface. Hold the blocks in place by surrounding them with pavers.
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