Build Modular Raised Garden Beds: Step-by-Step Instructions

Raised beds are an attractive, practical solution for small yards. They tame a rampant vegetable garden by creating neat compartments that are easy to weed, water, and mulch.

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Before You Start

Choose pressure-treated cedar or redwood 2x10s. (Wear dust mask and eye protection when sawing pressure-treated lumber.) Roughly grade the area level. Use stakes and string to lay out each bed, keeping strings 12 inches above ground. Paths should be at least 24 inches wide (3 inches wider than your mower if grass paths). Tools needed: basic carpentry tools, baby sledge, ratchet and sockets, large C-clamps.

What You Need

• Construction-grade 2x10s
• 3x24-inch PVC pipe sections
• 3-inch galvanized deck screws
• 1/4 x 5-1/2-inch carriage bolts
• 1/4-inch nuts, washers
• Gravel
• Mortar mix

Instructions

1. Cut and Assemble Frame Using layout strings as guide, cut 2x10s roughly to length. Fasten two pieces forming a 90° angle with 3-inch deck screws. Set the hypotenuse piece on top, mark for angled cut.

2. Cut and Attach Hypotenuse Set circular saw blade to match angled mark. Mark perpendicular cutting line and cut to size. Drill pilot holes and fasten with 3-inch galvanized deck screws.

3. Position and Anchor Set enclosure on 2x4 scraps, trim excess 2x10 with coarse handsaw. Position on ground, pound 2-foot sections of 3-inch PVC pipe into each corner. For large gardens, install a pipe every 6 feet to prevent bowing.

4. Level and Secure Level the 2x10 frame using lumber scraps and builder's shims. Clamp frame to pipe, drill two 5/16-inch holes through 2x10 and PVC. Insert two 1/4x5-inch carriage bolts at each stake, add washer and nut, tighten. Fill pipes with gravel and top with mortar mix.