A very popular method of gardening is the use of raised beds, especially if you want to grow fruit and veg at home, or if you aren’t as mobile as you used to be because they mean you don’t have to bend over quite so much… and, as we all know, gardening can indeed be back-breaking work!
Another major plus point about raised beds is that you can grow basically whatever you want in them, everything from soft fruits and veggies to herbaceous perennials, so if you’re keen to have lots of beautiful fresh cut flowers throughout the house, this would be an excellent way to go about it.
To get started with your raised bed garden, the first step is to decide where you want it to be and what your measurements are. Don’t forget to plan for access, as you’ll need to be able to have everything within easy reach without stepping on your garden. And any pathways you build should also be wide enough for you to be able to use a wheelbarrow if necessary.
Once you’ve worked out your layout, you can start thinking about what materials you want to use. Railway sleepers are one of the most common options (no doubt because they look great, as well as being practical), but they are heavy to lift so bear this in mind.
Timber is another excellent option, although you would be wise to treat it so it lasts for longer. Also make sure that you line your beds with sheeting if you are using treated wood, as this will prevent any preservatives or stains from leaching into the soil.
To start construction on your raised bed garden, you’ll first need to clear the site and level it if necessary, then mark out your beds. If you’re using sleepers or logs, you can place these directly on the soil, but if you’re planning a masonry bed, you may want to bring the professionals in to lend a hand!
For help with landscaping in Chester at the moment, get in touch with LW Landscapes today.