Most of the information you'll find about using pallets to build raised garden beds involves taking them apart and using the lumber to start from scratch. These ideas all work well for someone who is handy, and who has access to tools and the space to work in. However, those who aren't so fortunate or so handy can still use the pallets as they are to make raised gardening beds.
1
Select pallets stamped with the letters "HT," which indicates that they have been heat-treated, and not treated with chemicals that can leach into the soil and contaminate plants meant to be consumed such as herbs, vegetables and fruit.
2
Prepare pallets with solid deck boards by using a prybar or hammer to remove every other board, and set these aside to be used for other projects. Leave pallets with open spaces in their decks as is, as they provide instant spacing between garden rows.
3
Prepare the area for the raised beds by removing as many weeds as possible, and make it as flat as possible. Use a garden spade to remove all stones that may create an uneven surface, level any raised spots, fill in depressions, and rake the entire area smooth and flat to provide a solid base for the pallets.
4
Combine equal parts soil with equal parts compost in a wheelbarrow or bucket. Use the mixture to fill in the spaces between the deck boards, packing it into all visible spaces until it is spilling out over the top and sides.
5
Sweep the top of the pallets to redistribute any remaining stray soil into the spaces, and pat it down with your hands. Pull the soil on the open ends back to bank it against the pallet, but do not block it with anything, as this will provide drainage for the garden.
6
Plant seeds or seedlings in the soil in the open sections between the deck boards, spacing them the same distance as recommended for planting in a traditional garden.
Other samples of raised bed from pallets:
No comments:
Post a Comment