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1. How far should the additional timber sleeper be from the fence wall?
2. How deep should the trench be for a standard garden bed?
3. What to do in space under fence wall?
Thanks
Hello @Colossian
Please allow us to ask you a few more questions so that we can assist you further. Do you wish to cover the gap under the fence? The sleeper can be placed 100mm from the fence on the condition that it is reinforced with posts. The trench can be as deep as you like, it all depends on how deep you want your garden bed to be. Each sleeper is 200mm high so three of those put together will give you a raised garden bed of 600mm.
In regards to the space under fence, it is technically still open. But if you wish to cover it off then you'll need to put another piece of timber in that gap. The sleepers serve as a cover but is not attached to your fence. Hence technically the gap is still there.
If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.
Eric
Thank you, Eric, for your reply. Sorry, I don’t have much knowledge about landscaping. I’m planning to add lily pilly trees or a garden edge with plants. Mowing can be difficult at times, so I’d like to put up a barrier. What do you think are the advantages or disadvantages of covering this area?
Do you think 200mm timber would be enough, (recommended trench also please)or do you have any recommendations for a nice and affordable renovation option here?
Thank you.
Like this, but how do I create a wall to prevent the stones from falling?
#2 .
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Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @Colossian. It's sensational to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about creating a garden bed.
Adding a barrier with Lilly Pilly trees or a garden edge with plants can make mowing and maintenance much easier, while giving your landscaping a clean, defined look. It also helps contain plants and soil within a specific area, keeping your garden organised and preventing plants from spilling onto the lawn.
If you’re aiming to replicate the look in your inspiration images, dig down to match the depth of the edging you plan to use. Setting the pavers or edging stones in a mortar base will keep them stable and prevent shifting over time. Alternatively, you could use 200mm timber sleepers on their side to create a sturdy edging. For this, dig a trench around 200mm deep and slightly wider than the sleeper (about 50mm) to fit it in. Once in position, secure the sleepers with pegs or posts to hold them firmly in place.
A point to consider is that weeds can sometimes grow through pebbles or mulch in these areas, which may require some maintenance. To reduce this, I’d recommend laying down a weed mat before adding the pebbles. This will act as a barrier to prevent weeds from sprouting while allowing water to drain through.
For an affordable and low-maintenance option, we also offer a range of concrete edging that could work well for your project. This will give a neat finish and help with easy maintenance.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
Hello @Colossian
I suggest looking at Bastion 20kg Premix Concrete. It is a high strength concrete mix suitable for structural application for use when a smooth texture is required.
The space between your fence and the concrete edging depends on the type of plant you'll be purchasing. A small dwarf shrub you'll probably need 300mm, a midsized screening plant may be 500mm or more and a tree means that you''ll need a half circle that is least 1 meter from the fence. But if you are only putting in pebbles a space of 250mm - 300mm should be sufficient.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
Hi @Colossian,
We have a wonderful range of low-maintenance plants that would be perfect along a fence line. Options like Lilly Pilly are ideal for creating a dense, attractive screen, with various types available depending on the height and look you’re after. Murraya is another hardy choice that produces fragrant white flowers and can be easily shaped into a hedge or left to grow more naturally. Agapanthus is also popular for its resilience, with minimal upkeep and vibrant blooms that add a splash of colour. For ground cover, Native Violets provide a lush, low-growing option with small flowers, helping to suppress weeds and soften the area around taller plants.
With so many varieties, it would be helpful to know more about what you’d like to achieve in this space. Are you looking to add colour, create a screen for privacy, or perhaps just add some greenery with minimal effort? These details will help narrow down the best options for your garden. Let me know, and I’d be glad to recommend plants that best suit your vision.
Mitchell
