Staking A Raised Garden Bed: A Guide?

Raised garden beds are a popular method of growing vegetables, herbs, and flowers on top of existing soil. They were first noted in 300 BC by people living in the Andes mountains of South America and have gained popularity over time. The beds typically have a frame that delineates them, and they can be staked out with garden twine to establish the outer dimensions and paths between them.

To build raised beds, start with four 1-foot-long 4x4s for corner posts, eight 4-foot-long 2x6s for side rails, and four 2-foot-long 2x2s for center stakes. Hammer one 2×2 stake in each corner, hammered into the ground until solid. Level each side by raising each of the three other corners and screwing them to the stake when level is achieved.

Stir plants to the stakes with soft twine or garden clips and ensure cages are well-anchored. Soil considerations include well-draining soil with well-draining boards. Screw in additional support stakes spaced evenly along the long sides of beds, with two extra supports on each long side at just over 3 feet apart.

For longer-lasting beds, it is recommended to stake the bed and use 2x2s in the corners. Instead of a trellis, site a trellis along the north side of the bed so that it runs east to west. Set temporary trellises up at the north end of a bed to avoid blocking the soil.