Everyone has a different idea of what makes the perfect flowerbed.  But for some clients you work for, nothing but a raised flowerbed will do.

There could be a couple of reasons for this.  Firstly they may find it easier coping with a higher flowerbed if they have trouble kneeling or bending down.  Secondly they may simply prefer the more rustic look you’ll get from constructing a raised bed out of landscaping timber.

It’s an easy enough job to do as well.  First you’ll need to work out where the flowerbeds need to go.  Measure out the ideal size and make sure the homeowner approves of it.  If they want two tiered flowerbeds ensure you build this into your plan. The rear, higher one should always be easily accessible if you go down this route.  It’s a good idea to ask them what they want to grow in it, so the ideal area can be agreed on.  Not every plant loves being in direct sunshine, and the customer will be disappointed if they have specific plans that will fail in this way.

Ideally you want to get some timber that measures six by six.  This reduces the number of lengths you need to build up the perfect bed.  Two of them on top of each other will provide a twelve inch high bed that is suitable for most types of planting.

Once you have your plot marked out you will need to dig a small trench.  The timbers will not sit directly on the ground – they need to be sunk into it to a certain extent.  By filling the trench with a small amount of gravel you’ll be able to help any water drain away and this will prolong the life of the timber you use.

Lay out the timbers in the correct places and then use landscaping nails to put them into place.  When you add the second layer of timber make sure you fix it to the bottom layer by hammering home the nails in different places to where you put them in before.  You should also ensure the joints don’t match up with the bottom layer.  Think of how a brick wall is built and follow the same idea to create more strength and stability.  By the time you have finished the whole thing should be nice and secure.

You can then fill up the planter with soil.  You should try and refrain from planting anything in it for a couple of days if you can.  The soil will start to sink down a little and even if you fill it to the top you’ll find that any plants put in it will sink down too and you won’t be able to top it up again.  A little patience works wonders!

Simple raised flowerbeds don’t take long to create and you can make anything from a simple rectangular bed to something more complex.  L-shapes and tiered beds can transform any garden from something basic to something rustic and charming.

Interested in starting a Lawn Care Business? Click here to learn more about our Lawn Care Business Guide.