How To Build A Raised Garden Box (part 3 of 3)

My sister lives on 4+ beautiful acres in Colorado in a ranch house with an awesome dog, a barn, a stable, a well, and her amazing family. It is quite the life. We visited during spring break and had a great time… while there we built two raised garden beds for her to use this spring. (Thanks to the husbands for watching the kiddos while we worked! I love that). If you’re considering a raised garden box check out this post. If you want a raised bed, but you don’t think a wood one will work where you live here is one we built with cement blocks. And this post by Kindness Home is very comprehensive and informative.

After some research we followed this youtube tutorial. This box seemed like the easiest thing to build and the biggest bang for her buck, both things we are totally into. She built two 8×4 boxes for about $50 per box in supplies. Here is what you will need to build one box:

• Two 2″ x 12″ x 8′ boards
• One 2″ x 12″ x 8′ board cut in half (cut it at the hardware store if you don’t have a mitre saw!)
• One 4″ x 4″ x 8′ cut into four equal 18″ pieces
• Box of 3 1/2″ wood screws (we used outdoor, no rust screws)
• Garden weed/ground guard (optional)
• Seal with Thompson water seal (optional but recommended), you also could use roofing tar, or paint it a fun color!
• Drill and drill bit
• Staple gun to attach the weed guard
• Shovel to dig a hole for the 4×4 corner posts

We built the first box in about an hour. It is easiest to build with two people… besides the obvious fun of being with my sister, one person can hold while the other attaches the boards. If this is a solo adventure use wood clamps if you have them to hold the boards together. The youtube video I linked to above is super helpful. Here are just a few instructions from us:

Start by attaching one board to the 4×4 with at least least three screws, remember the pilot hole (we started with a middle pilot hole and sinking the screw, then add two more). Make sure the boards are flush on each corner and attach each board to the 4×4 all the way around until you have a box.

Once the boards are each attached to the 4 x 4’s staple your weed guard to the bottom (if you are using it), make sure you use a guard that lets the water drain out.

Dig holes for the 4×4 posts. And flip over your box (also easier with two people) then pack the dirt around the posts. Weather protect stain your box, or paint it (depending on where you live). Then throw in some great soil and seeds for a spectacular garden!

I hope you consider growing something yummy this year… Have a great project-filled weekend and happy creating!