12 DIY Raised Garden Bed Ideas

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Now that the fall has arrived, I decided to take another look at my garden.

Like every other typical male, I tend to look at something I have done and think, “How can I make that Bigger & Better”.

Currently, I have 8 raised garden beds that work just fine, but we are looking to increase the amount of space we now use.

If you recall, in a post from last year, We created some nice raised beds from scrap wood we had lying around. Although this has worked out exceptionally well for us, I am exploring alternative ideas and designs for next year.

As you all know, whenever my imagination takes hold, I like to share my research with all of you to help you and your decisions.

Related: Check out my building plans for cheap raised garden beds

My first step was to go through Google images and see what and how other people were going about building their beds.

There are many great ideas using everything from pallets, stone, cinder blocks, and more. I also try to avoid commercial sites and dive into projects that people have thought of themselves.

It never fails to amaze me how talented and ingenious some people are.

Note: If you decide to make beds out of pallets, make sure you use clean and heat-treated pallets to avoid contamination. Don’t skimp on food safety.

I picked the most exciting designs and listed them below. Enjoy. (Don’t forget to send us pictures of your projects!)

1. Pallet Garden Beds

I am a pallet addict. If there is a project that I can build from these free lumber bundles, I’m all over it.

Here is one of the best jobs I have seen utilizing pallets.

On their blog, they illustrate how to build these beds step by step. Tons of great photos. Check them out here Pallet Garden Beds

2. Pallet Garden Beds on HomeTalk

Here is another fantastic job that Dennis from NH built. Constructed from a combination of used pallets and regular lumber, this design is deep enough to hold up those plants with deep root systems.

These beds may look difficult to build, but in actuality, the plans are fairly simple.

One side of the center beam is cut and bolted to the frame. All other pallets are used to fill the remaining gaps. Then the lining of the interior was done with 40-weight tar paper and 1/4 fan fold insulation. Lastly, a layer of black plastic sheeting and pro-grade landscape fabric. The bottom is filled with large rocks followed by organic compost, vermiculite, and peat moss.

Take a look at the image below, where he added a PVC cover to protect young plants.

Garden Beds From Pallets And the PVC Greenhouse cover!

3. World’s Most Simple Pallet Garden Bed

Sometimes we can overthink things, but not this fellow. Want a simple garden bed without the hassle? Check out this neat idea!

Just as the name goes, the simple pallet garden bed. Children are encouraged to contribute to this garden bed with just a wooden pallet, some good soil, and a few seeds. You can also use recycled wooden pallets but make sure they have a code something like- JP-3001135-HT. The main focus here is the “HT” which means that the pallet was heat treated, kiln dried, and not chemically prepared.

Nothing fancy, just drop and fill with dirt. This concept is excellent for leafy vegetables with smaller root systems. Simple Pallet Garden Beds

4. Raised Garden Bed on Legs

The older I get, the harder it is to bend down for long periods. For my fellows with the same problem, here is a great idea.

Build your garden beds on four legs. This alleviates the need to work on your knees.

If your dog always messes with your carefully prepared garden. This is the one for you. It mainly serves two purposes: you don’t need to stress on your knees and can work on your legs. Second, your pets will be away from the garden.

The stuff you will need includes a pressure treated lumber (depends on the size of the box), pressure-treated posts, lag bolts to fix legs, galvanized screws, 1/4 mesh hardware screen, a box of lath screws, landscape fabric, moisture-holding soil, and compost.

This simple construction consists of 4×4 posts and 2x10s. Check out the instructions here Raised Garden Beds on Legs

5. Elevated Garden Beds

Similar to the one above, these raised garden beds on legs are great for patios as well as the garden.

Ana White’s site includes full plans and a shopping list to make these wonderful planters. Counter Height Garden Beds

6. Corrugated Metal Garden Beds

Let’s face it folks, wood rots. If you are looking to build something that will last season after season, you might consider using non-degradable materials such as steel.

Corrugated metal adds a great rustic look to your garden, and it will last forever. Take a look at their site on how they built these beds. Corrugated Metal Garden Beds

More Raised Garden Beds on The Next Page!

7. Beds Made From Landscaping Timbers

These beds have an attractive rustic appeal to them.

Made with landscaping timbers, just another example of using non-traditional building materials to build your raised garden beds. Garden Beds Made With Landscaping Timbers

8. Add a Short Fence

I have a serious problem in my garden; my cat loves to go potty in my fresh dirt. Building a short fence above your beds can keep out pests and vermin.

Made with 1×1 lumber and chicken wire, this is a great idea. Raised Garden Bed with Fence

9. Raised Garden Bed With Top Fence

Looking for a resource where you can download several plans? Check these guys out. They offer plans for several bed designs. Raised Garden Bed Plans

10. Raised Garden Beds From Railroad Ties

Here is a nice alternative and cost-effective also. Build your beds from old railroad ties.

This company sells the ties and will deliver. You may also be able to find somewhere local to get them for free. Raised Garden Beds from Railroad Ties