I dashed out in between rainy days to prep the raised beds and found one in serious need of replacing. Happily building beds is pretty quick and easy.
The first step is a trip to the lumber store to get three 8 foot long by one foot high boards. I usually ask the staff to cut one of the boards in two; the first cut is free at most places.
You can use scrap wood but be sure it’s not painted or treated in any way. Scrap wood can save you money in the short term but it doesn’t last very long. To make this bed with new wood, hardware, screws and four bags of compost cost me about 70 dollars.
Next figure out where you want to put the bed.
Lay the boards out first.
Next get out your power screw driver and charge it up. This is one job that I can’t imagine doing without a power tool.
Decide how you’re going to join the boards together.
I have tried screwing one board into another and they come apart pretty quickly. Using this kind of fastener works well.
Line your boards up and screw them together. Having a friend help at this point makes it easier.
Finished bed all ready to fill and plant!
Once the bed is done wiggle it around to the place you want it to be then fill and plant. With help it takes about 20 to 30 minutes to put a bed together.
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