An Improved Raised Bed

http://www.instructables.com/id/An-Improved-Raised-Bed-Garden/

step 1Materials Needed
The usual concrete tools, materials and supplies. For my mix, I used a ready mix concrete so that I would be sure to have a uniform, strong concrete. For the bed itself, I…


step 2Making The Form
The form is made using 1/4in. plywood, and 1x6 lumber cut to the correct sizes. See pictures for specifics. A key part of making these braces is the addition of a piece of…


step 3Mix and Pour Concrete Into Form
Plan on letting the form set for 24-48 hrs to insure maximum strength. Concrete goes on curing for several more days if not weeks, but 48 hrs is sufficient for the first set.


step 4Remove Brace From Form
I unscrew the outside piece of the form which moves away easily after the bolts have been removed. By gently tapping on the wood part of the form, the concrete easily separ…


step 5Assemble the Bed.
To assemble the bed, I use 5/16in. Bolts of the appropriate length. For this particular bed, 4 or 4 and 1/2 in. bolts are used. One washer is used on each end of the bolt…


step 6Fill Bed With Garden Soil Of your Choice
In order to supply your plants with the absolute best growing conditions, you want to use a high quality garden soil. I have a compost bin, and also purchase commercial or…


step 7Replacing A Rotted End Piece
I have replaced several of these pieces, but they continuted to rot out. Hence the corner brace of concrete. Replacing the piece is simply a matter of unbolting the old pi…


step 8The Finished Repair Job.
With this new corner brace, I expect the end boards will last considerably longer than just bolted wood. Time will tell.

For a picture tutorial of this project please click on the link.