This raised bed update is sponsored by Miracle-Gro.
Three years ago, I decided to build three really cool looking raised beds for my garden. These would be unlike anything I have ever done before. I went for not only function, but style. You can check out my original post and DIY guide here for my Metal Raised Garden Bed.
Over time, I received numerous questions about how the raised beds were holding up. I’ve learned a lot and would most certainly make some changes and improvements. I’ve also learned a lot about how to better position plants.
Table of Contents
Plan Your Garden
When I first built the beds, I have to admit, I did very little planning. If I could go back in time – or even better, if I decided to move all the soil temporarily, I’d use the blueprints available at BonniePlants.com. From guides on laying out your vegetable garden, to some fun themes such as a grilling garden, you can plant and enjoy a higher rate of success.
Amendments and Plant Food
Both of these products by Miracle-Gro can be found at Walmart online and via the Pick Up Today service.
Excess Produce and Reducing Food Waste
All potential donors (whether they are gardeners, farmers market managers, restaurant owners, etc.) should be notified of the Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Act. This piece of legislation, which was passed by Congress in 1996, removes all liability in regard to food donations from donors if they take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of the food. If, for whatever reason, a donation was given by someone who understood it to be in good condition, but that food later posed a health hazard, the donor would not be held responsible.
Two excellent resources to find a local food bank or pantry near you are:
Metal Raised Bed Build Adjustments
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I strive to paint vivid landscapes with my words, bringing the magic of far-off lands and enchanting aromas to life for my readers. Combine passion for exploration and the art of gastronomy in an unending ode to the senses. When I’m not traversing the globe, I find solace in the earth beneath my fingertips, tending to my garden and working on projects around my verdant oasis. MK Library serves as a beacon, guiding fellow travelers and homebodies alike to embrace sustainability, nurturing both our planet and our souls with purpose. Full Bio.
I went ahead and used your raised beds as a blueprint for mine I made this summer. Mine are 8×3 out of space constraints. I used leftover pressure treated wood for the corners, and re:bulging I wrapped and stapled a piece of cedar 2×4 w plastic drop cloth and bolted it on to two additional pieces of wood I slapped on to each of the 8ft sides halfway. It looks sharp and if I want to add a rail for sitting down in the future it provides for another screw/contact point. There’s a study from Oregon State where they tried something similar for 4×4 posts and the result was greatly increased life for posts. Happy to share some pictures if you are interested.
Hi frumply,
I am interested in your design. I am keen to build some long raised garden beds for which solving the side-bulge problem is a necessity.
I look forward to your reply.
I like these beds and the integrated irrigation. For the bulging sides, since you will need to remove the dirt in order to bring them back in, I would do 2 things. First, I would create better drainage at the bottom of the beds with a 6″ layer of rock, styrofoam, or something that will allow water to drain away easier. Then replace dirt on top. For the sides, I would run a piece of galvanized steel pipe across the middle of the bed, about halfway down from the top with flange floor fittings screwed on either end of the pipe. Then you only need to run small bolts in from the outside thru the flange fitting which would not interfere with aesthetic very much.