Materials List

Raised bed plan
This plan is for a 4-foot-wide by 16-foot-long bed.
Computer Drawing: Joe Seals
  • Lumber: Four - 2" x 12" x 8' (sides)
    Two - 2" x 12" x 4' (ends)
    Twelve - 4" x 4" x 24" (posts)
    Two - 2" x 12" x 8" (tie braces)
  • Twenty-four - 6" x 5/16" hex-head bolts
  • Eight - 8" x 5/16" hex-head bolts
  • Thirty-two - 5/16" washers & nuts

Construction Tips

  • Before construction: Have lumber pre-cut to size by lumberyard.
  • Dig out hole approx. 5' x 17' x 12" deep.
  • Build box in halves--upside down. (They will be tied together afterwards when moved into place.
  • When drilling holes for bolts on end posts, make sure they don't cross/intersect.
  • Double center post bolts are longer, to allow for the tie lumber thickness.
  • It requires several people to carry first half and flip it into the hole. Set so sides are at grade level.
  • Move in the second half per above and bolt through the ties, to complete the box.
  • Level the box, fill in the post hole areas with soil, and then tamp until firm.
  • Fill beds with a good planting mix (1/3 compost, 2/3 native soil).
  • Screed until roughly level.
  • Sprinkle the beds daily for a couple weeks, to allow the soil to settle.
  • Fill in low spots as needed.
  • Weed, if necessary. Then plant.