One of the most important considerations when building a raised garden bed is what to put on the bottom. The material you choose will impact the drainage, aeration, and overall health of your plants.
Here are some of the most common surfaces to consider:
Grass
If you’re building a raised garden bed on a grass lawn, it’s important to remove the grass layer before filling the bed with soil. Leaving grass on the bottom can lead to problems like weeds, pests, and poor drainage.
To remove the grass, use a shovel to cut it into small sections and remove them, or use a sod cutter to make the job easier. Alternatively, you can lay down a layer of landscaping fabric or cardboard to smother the grass, preventing it from growing back.
Pavement
If you’re building a raised garden bed on a paved surface, such as a patio or driveway, it’s important to create a barrier between the soil and the pavement. This can be achieved by laying down a layer of landscaping fabric or a weed barrier to prevent the soil from washing away or seeping into the pavement.
Concrete
If you’re building a raised garden bed on a concrete surface, you can place a layer of gravel or rocks on the bottom to improve drainage. This will also prevent the soil from coming into contact with the concrete, which can leach chemicals and minerals that are harmful to plants.
In conclusion, the material you choose to place on the bottom of your raised garden bed will have a significant impact on the health of your plants. While soil is the most natural option, it’s important to choose a high-quality soil mix and avoid using soil from your yard.
Grass can be problematic if not properly removed, while pavement and concrete require a barrier to protect the soil and plants. Consider the specific needs of your plants and the location of your garden bed when choosing the best surface for the bottom of your raised garden bed.