Get Creative with a Long Skinny Raised Garden Bed – Grow Your Ideal Garden with Limited Space!

When it comes to gardening, not everyone has the luxury of having a spacious backyard or ample floor space to lay out a garden bed. Fortunately, there are space-saving solutions like a long skinny raised garden bed, which can be installed on narrow areas such as patios, balconies, or along walkways. This article will discuss the benefits of a long skinny raised garden bed, the materials needed to build one, how to prepare the soil, what to plant, and maintenance tips.

Materials Needed to Build a Long Skinny Raised Garden Bed

A long skinny raised garden bed can be made of different materials such as wood, metal, or plastic. The most common material used is wood since it’s readily available, affordable, and easy to work with. Here are the materials you need to build a long skinny raised garden bed:

– 2×6 or 2×8 rot-resistant wood planks that will serve as the sides of the garden bed.

– Galvanized wood screws to attach the sides and create a sturdy frame.

– Landscape fabric to line the bottom of the garden bed to prevent weeds from growing up.

– Soil mixture of topsoil, compost, and sand.

– Optional: garden bed legs, which can be made of wood or metal. The legs elevate the garden bed from the ground, making it easier for gardeners to tend to their plants.

– Optional: garden bed cover or cloth to protect plants from extreme weather conditions or pests.

The Benefits of a Long Skinny Raised Garden Bed

There are several advantages to using a long skinny raised garden bed. Here are some of them:

– Space-saving. A long skinny raised garden bed can fit in narrow spaces such as patios, courtyards, or walkways.

– Better soil quality. The soil in a raised garden bed is well-drained and aerated since it’s elevated from the ground. It’s also easier to control the soil’s pH and nutrient levels.

– Accessibility. Gardeners can easily tend to their plants since they don’t have to bend over or kneel on the ground.

– Pest control. Since the garden bed is elevated from the ground, it’s less prone to pests like slugs, snails, and ground-dwelling insects.

How to Prepare the Soil for a Long Skinny Raised Garden Bed

Before planting anything in your long skinny raised garden bed, you need to prepare the soil. Here are the steps to follow:

– Remove any grass or weeds from the area where you plan to install the garden bed.

– Line the bottom of the garden bed with landscape fabric to prevent weeds from growing up.

– Fill the garden bed with a soil mixture consisting of topsoil, compost, and sand. Mix them thoroughly to ensure that the soil is well-drained and aerated.

– Level the soil mixture so that it’s evenly distributed inside the garden bed.

What to Plant in a Long Skinny Raised Garden Bed

The plants you choose to plant in your long skinny raised garden bed will depend on your location, climate, and personal preferences. Here are some tips on what to plant:

– Choose plants that are suitable for your area’s climate and soil type. Consult with your local extension office or nursery for suggestions.

– Pick plants that are appropriate for the amount of sunlight the garden bed gets. Some plants require full sun, while others thrive in the shade.

– Consider planting companion plants that can benefit each other. For example, planting basil next to tomatoes can help repel pests.

– Choose plants that are well-suited for container gardening, such as herbs, lettuces, and strawberries.

Maintenance Tips for a Long Skinny Raised Garden Bed

Maintaining a long skinny raised garden bed is relatively easy, but it does require some care. Here are some tips:

– Water the plants regularly and make sure the soil stays moist. Check the soil’s moisture level by sticking your finger into the soil; if it feels dry, it’s time to water.

– Fertilize the plants as needed. You can use organic compost or a slow-release fertilizer to provide nutrients to the soil.

– Monitor for pests and diseases. Inspect the leaves and stems of the plants for any signs of damage. If you notice any pests or diseases, take action immediately to prevent them from spreading.

– Mulch the soil with organic matter like straw or leaves. This will help retain moisture in the soil and prevent weeds from growing.

FAQs

Q: What are the benefits of a raised garden bed with legs and cover?
A: A raised garden bed with legs and cover offers several benefits such as elevated gardening that reduces bending and kneeling, better drainage, and protection from extreme weather conditions and pests.

Q: Where can I find raised garden bed with legs plans pdf?
A: You can find raised garden bed with legs plans pdf online on websites that offer free or paid garden bed plans.

Q: Can I build a raised garden bed with legs DIY?
A: Yes, you can build a raised garden bed with legs DIY using the materials and instructions mentioned in this article.

Q: Can I purchase a raised garden bed with legs from Home Depot?
A: Yes, Home Depot offers a wide selection of raised garden beds with legs made of different materials such as wood, metal, and plastic.

Q: What is the best material for a raised garden bed with legs drainage?
A: Wood is the best material for a raised garden bed with legs drainage since it’s porous and allows water to pass through.

Q: Where can I buy a raised planter boxes on legs for sale?
A: You can buy raised planter boxes on legs for sale at garden centers, nursery stores, or online on websites such as Amazon or Etsy.