How to build a garden bed along a fence?

[Colossian]

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

[Colossian]

 perhaps just add some greenery with minimal effort? Yes ,this one please. 

[MitchellMc]

Thanks for letting me know @Colossian. If you're aiming to add some greenery with minimal effort, I'd recommend looking into plants like Buxus (Boxwood), which is an excellent low-maintenance option for creating a neat, evergreen hedge. It thrives in a variety of conditions and requires little care once established. It's also great for shaping and maintaining a tidy look along your fence line.

Mitchell

[Colossian]

Before I start the renovation, here’s what I plan to do:

1. Sleeper timber (what height do you recommend?) on the sides, and put pebbles in the middle.
If I use bricks instead, would that be better?

2. The soil is a bit soft; what should I do to make it more stable if I’m going to use timber or bricks?

If I add artificial turf or grass, what should I consider first for soft soil?

3. What should the height of the soil be on the side of the retaining wall?

4. What other recommendations do you have for low maintenance?

 

[MitchellMc]

Hi @Colossian,

First, regarding the choice between timber sleepers or bricks for the garden edging, both have their benefits, but the decision ultimately comes down to the aesthetic you're going for and the level of maintenance you're comfortable with. Timber sleepers are easier to work with, blend well into natural landscapes, and are simpler to replace if needed. They do require periodic maintenance to prevent weathering, but they tend to be the more flexible and cost-effective option. Bricks, on the other hand, offer a more rigid, formal appearance and provide a stable, long-lasting edge, but they’re harder to install and can shift over time if not properly laid in a solid foundation.

When stabilising soft soil for timber or bricks, it’s essential to compact the ground before installing your edging. You can do this by using a hand tamper or a soil compactor to ensure the soil is firm enough to support the weight of the sleepers or bricks. If you’re opting for bricks, you'll need a solid base, so consider laying down a layer of crushed gravel to ensure the bricks stay in place on their mortar bed. Likewise, if you intend to add artificial turf, you'll need a compacted base.

For the soil height against your retaining wall, this will depend on how much soil you’re planning to add and the type of plants you're using. Typically, you'll want the soil level to be a few centimetres lower than the top of the retaining wall to allow for drainage. Adding too much soil could cause it to spill over, so aim for a gradual slope from the wall to the edge of the garden bed.

Finally, as for the low-maintenance options, since you're aiming for a garden that's easy to manage, I recommend looking into hardy plants like Buxus (Boxwood) for a neat, evergreen hedge, or Agapanthus for colourful, resilient blooms that require little care. These plants are both attractive and practical for a low-maintenance garden, providing a defined look while minimising the need for regular upkeep.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell