Woodie's DIY will show you how to make a raised bed. Before long you'll be able to grow and eat your own vegetables and salad.

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Before long you'll be able to grow and eat your own vegetables and salad.

How to do it

In this instance pressure treated deck boards have been used for the framework. When designing the raised bed, ensure it’s no more than 1200mm wide as you’ll need to comfortably reach the middle

Step 1

Cut your lengths of deck to size. Measure and cut six 810mm boards, and six 1520mm boards. These will make the frame of the raised bed.

Step 2

To make the posts, measure and cut two 800mm lengths of 100mm x 100mm posts. Point one end of each length using a handsaw. These points will fix the raised bed into the soil.

Step 3

Take a 810mm Deck Board and screw it to one of your posts using 2 screws. Allow the board to overlap by 30mm gap at the top so you can hide the post with compost later.

Insert screws at a slight angle for a secure fit and to prevent the wood from splitting.

Step 4

Attach another post to the end of this deck board. Then take a second 810mm deck board and attach just below the existing deck board. Repeat the process with the third deck board to finish the side

Step 5

With both ends assembled, you can now attach the six 1520mm side frames. Simply align the deck board before inserting the screws. Then attach the second and third 1520mm board.

Step 6

Repeat the process on the opposite side by attaching the remaining three 1520mm deck boards.

Step 7

Once the frame is assembled place the frame upside down on the area where it will be positioned and using a spade mark the area of the ground where you will remove the sods. Next remove the frame and clear the sods.

Step 8

Then sit the upright frame in place. Use a spirit level to ensure all sides are level. Any slight adjustments can be made now by tapping the corners with a hammer.

A good little check to ensure the frame ‘is square’ is to measure diagonally from corner to corner. Both distances should be the same. Make any adjustments by tapping a corner with a hammer/mallet.

Step 9

Fill with compost. The compost can be filled to the brim to cover the four posts. Your raised bed is now ready for you to enjoy growing your own fruit and vegetables.