Make These Easy DIY Raised Beds (With Instructions) | Gardener's Path

For the past few years, cucumbers, squash, and zucchini have wilted in my garden –  no matter what.

My best guess is that my soil is infected with a virus, be it phytophthera or some other crippling condition.

Since then, I have planned to build a raised bed for cucurbits, which would give me some fresh soil to try growing them again.

Well, I finally got around to it! I built a raised bed out of dog-eared cedar fence posts and pressure treated 2x2s. It measures 6 feet long by 18 inches wide by 11 inches high.

It’s a little skinny for squash and zucchini plants, but I was desperate to create an area with fresh soil without breaking the bank. So, we’ll see how it goes!

While the size of this DIY bed may be a stretch for large plants, like zucchini and squash, it is beyond perfect for growing root crops, which need loose, loamy soil to reach their full potential.

Place it up against a fence or add a piece of trellis to the back and it’s equally great for climbing crops, like peas, green beans, and cucumbers.

I spent around 20 dollars on lumber and already had exterior screws on hand. And it was less than 35 dollars to fill with soil – but this will vary depending on what type of soil you use and have available.

While I don’t consider a total of 55 dollars a small sum, I do consider it an investment.

Next year, I’ll just have to top off the soil with some compost and possibly more sand for added drainage. So it’s nearly a one-time expense.

Want one (or five) for your garden? Keep reading to learn how to build your own DIY raised beds at home!!