The Cheapest Way to Create Raised Garden Beds

Creating raised garden beds can seem like a costly endeavor, but with a little creativity and some careful planning, you can build them without spending a dime. In this guide, we'll explore some inexpensive and eco-friendly methods to construct your very own raised beds, from repurposing materials to using free soil amendments.

Materials You Can Use for Raised Bed Sides

Instead of purchasing specialized raised bed kits, which can be quite expensive, look around for alternatives. Piled-up soil without sides can still work, but often, a visually appealing and practical choice is to use materials that are both eco-friendly and cost-effective. Here are a few suggestions:

Repurposed Wood

Check local sources such as Freecycle or Facebook Marketplace, where you might find old wood pieces that are just waiting to be reused. My local Freecycle group often has great offerings. When I was looking to build raised beds last fall, I contacted a local vicar who was retiring and clearing out his vicarage. I picked up some old wooden planks for free, and now they’re being used as edging for some of my raised beds. The total cost was minimal, mainly for some fuel to make the trip.

Haybales and Rotted Haybales

Haybales, especially those that are rotted and free, can serve as excellent edging for your raised beds. You can hollow them out, fill them with soil, and voilà! You have a natural and environmentally friendly raised bed. Rotted haybales are often available for free from local farms. You can even bring a tarp or shopping bags to collect multiple haybales, making it a perfect day to go yard work and take back home all the materials you need for your garden.

Wood Pallets

Cutting down wood pallets, which are usually given away for free, can be another excellent choice. These pallets can be cut to size and nailing them together can give you sturdy and free-standing raised beds. Fill the spaces inside the pallets with leaf or grass mulch, and then cover it with soil. This method not only saves money but also repurposes materials that might otherwise end up in landfills.

Soil and Compost

The cost of soil can be reduced significantly by utilizing native soil and amending it with compost. Many landfills offer free compost, providing a rich soil amendment that can enhance the nutrients in your garden. If you prefer to make your own, gather autumn leaves and other organic materials to create a compost pile in your backyard. Over time, this will break down into a wonderful soil amendment for your raised beds.

DIY Raised Bed Gardening

Creating raised beds by hand, using free materials, can be a satisfying and rewarding DIY project. My local Freecycle group is a goldmine of free materials. Get together with friends, family, or neighbors, and you can get a lot done. Not only will you be saving money, but you’ll also be helping to reduce waste and make your garden a more sustainable place.

By repurposing materials and utilizing free resources, you can create beautiful and functional raised garden beds at a fraction of the cost of buying kits or new materials. So, roll up your sleeves, grab some tools, and start creating your very own raised garden beds today. Happy gardening!