Building a raised vegie garden

[Scottyw]

I would like to grow vegies in a raised bed. I was thinking about building a planter box, although I have seen that you can purchase them. Would you build one yourself? If so, anyone got any (simple) plans I could follow? 

[Brad]

I would make my own.

build-a-raised-garden-bed-with-sleepers

Steel

If you don't run away screaming after looking at that, we can look at what we can do design wise.

[RodAndo]

Hi @Scottyw I'd suggest building one for sure.

Do you have any preference as to the look and materials you are after? Also what size.

I have a variety that I've built at home and have also sold and maintain a few large vegetable / herb planter boxes to clients of mine (I have a handyman business).

I've made these out of a variety of materials including recycled pallets, recycled hardwood floorboards, hardwood decking and treated pine. Obviously each timber has plusses and minuses and you need to ensure that it is prepared correctly and know that it doesn't contain harmful chemicals.

You also have the option of tracking down some used fruit crates and using those as raised garden boxes. For example I found a couple on Gumtree for $50 each.

Anyway I'd be happy to send through a plan or instructions if I have anything of interest.

[Scottyw]

Thanks for the offer Rod.

I've been offered some railway sleepers so was thinking about using them. But they are very big and heavy, and I don't like my chances of being able to cut them.

[CathD]

I loved the fruit crates that Darren shared here - https://www.workshop.com.au/t5/Gardening/Upcycling-a-fruit-crate/m-p/1283

[Jason]

Hi @Scottyw,

Here's a few other Workshop posts that should inspire:

• @bruceprince's raised garden 

• @RodAndo's planter box

• @timjeffries garden bed front fence

The following Bunnings D.I.Y. videos should also be a great help. 

Jason

[darylhewston]

@Scottyw

As I was walking into Bunnings yesterday, they had a couple of pallets of these Ekodeck composite sleepers.  Never seen them before.  Just another option.  $24.95 each in a range of colours.  150 x 50 x 1800mm.  Bit more expensive than treated pine.  Didn't have enough time to browse so couldn't tell you if specialist brackets etc required.

[Scottyw]

Thanks Daryl, I will take a look. 

[CathD]

I saw these the other day - could be a good alternative to building your own. They are Australian made. 

https://www.bunnings.com.au/vegepod-2-x-1m-raised-garden-kit_p3321636

The self-watering system and cover should help promote/accelerate growth. The cover would also be useful for keeping pests at bay (and pets). Different sizes are available and stands.