Tools Required
- Measuring tape
- Drill with screwdriver bit
- Level
- Shovel or garden spade
- Hammer or mallet
- Screwdriver
- Rubber mallet (optional)
- Soil (composed of compost, topsoil, and organic matter)
- Garden gloves
- Pest deterrent or mesh (optional)
Assembly Instructions
Step 1: Unbox and Organize the Parts
Before starting the assembly, carefully unpack all components of the Outdoor Living Today 8×8 Cedar Raised Garden Bed Kit. Lay out the pieces, ensuring you have the correct quantity of wood panels, corner posts, screws, and any additional accessories that may be included, such as drainage inserts or soil separators.
Step 2: Choose the Installation Location
Select a flat, well-drained area for your raised bed. Consider sun exposure (6–8 hours of sunlight is ideal for most vegetables and herbs). Use a measuring tape to confirm that the area is large enough for the 8×8-foot dimensions of the kit.
Step 3: Assemble the Bed Frame
- Align the four corner posts at each of the bed’s corners.
- Attach the cedar wood panels to the posts using the provided screws. Ensure the panels are flush with the posts for a secure fit.
- Check for levelness as you proceed. Use a level to ensure that each panel sits flat and straight.
- Tighten all screws securely once each corner is aligned correctly.
Step 4: Install the Corner Braces
The Outdoor Living Today 8×8 Cedar Raised Garden Bed Kit typically includes corner braces to further secure the frame. Attach these braces to the inside of each corner to reinforce the structure and prevent warping or shifting over time.
Step 5: Secure the Bed to the Ground
If you want extra stability, you may anchor the bed frame to the ground using ground spikes or steel brackets. This is especially helpful in areas with high winds or loose soil.
Step 6: Fill the Bed with Soil
Start filling the garden bed with a well-balanced soil mix. A good blend includes compost, organic matter, and topsoil. Fill the bed approximately 2–3 inches from the top of the frame to allow space for watering.
Site Preparation and Routine Upkeep
Site Preparation
Ensure the ground beneath the raised bed is level and clear of debris. If necessary, loosen the soil beneath the bed to aid drainage. The cedar material of the frame provides natural protection against rot, but it is still important to ensure the ground does not retain excessive moisture. If desired, lay down a weed barrier fabric beneath the bed before filling with soil to prevent weeds from creeping into the bed from below.
Seasonal Cleaning
At the end of each growing season, clear any dead plant material from the raised bed. This helps prevent pests and disease from overwintering in the bed. You can also add a layer of compost or mulch on top of the soil to help maintain soil health through the winter months.
Soil Refresh
Periodically refresh the soil by adding compost or other organic materials to replenish nutrients. Depending on the crops you grow, the soil may deplete in specific minerals over time, so regular soil testing is recommended to ensure nutrient balance.
Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues
Warping of Cedar Panels
While cedar is naturally resistant to rot and pests, prolonged exposure to moisture or sunlight may cause slight warping of the wood panels. If this occurs, ensure that the bed is positioned in an area with proper airflow and not constantly exposed to standing water. To prevent excessive warping, consider applying a protective wood sealant to the exterior of the frame.
Drainage Issues
If water tends to pool at the bottom of the bed, it may indicate poor drainage. To address this, ensure that the ground beneath the bed is sufficiently sloped to allow water runoff. Additionally, consider adding a drainage layer of gravel or pebbles to the bottom of the bed before adding soil. This will help prevent waterlogging.
Pest Entry
To protect your plants from pests like rodents or insects, consider adding a mesh pest cover or installing a hoop-house frame with a fine mesh netting. This will prevent pests from accessing the plants while still allowing for airflow and sunlight.
Customization and Optimization
Wicking Inserts for Water Efficiency
To optimize water retention, consider using wicking inserts in the garden bed. These inserts help draw moisture up from the bottom of the bed, ensuring your plants receive a consistent water supply while reducing the frequency of watering. This can be especially beneficial in hot, dry climates.
Companion Planting Layouts
Optimize your bed for plant health by utilizing companion planting. Arrange plants that benefit each other in close proximity to maximize growth. For instance, plant basil next to tomatoes to improve flavor and deter pests. Companion planting layouts can help increase yields and reduce the need for chemical interventions.
Mulching for Soil Health
To preserve soil moisture and prevent weeds, add a layer of mulch on top of the soil. This not only helps retain water but also improves soil structure over time as it decomposes. Cedar chips or straw are both great options that work well in the Outdoor Living Today raised bed.
Comparison with Similar Raised-Bed Systems
Compared to other common raised bed kits, the Outdoor Living Today 8×8 Cedar Raised Garden Bed Kit stands out due to its durable cedar construction, which provides a natural, long-lasting frame that resists pests and rot. Other materials, such as metal or plastic, may not offer the same aesthetic appeal or organic benefits that cedar provides.
While plastic or metal beds may be cheaper or easier to assemble, cedar offers superior insulation, keeping the soil temperature stable. Additionally, cedar is a renewable resource, making this bed a more eco-friendly option.
Compatibility with Add-Ons
Trellis Frames
The Outdoor Living Today 8×8 Cedar Raised Garden Bed Kit is compatible with trellis frames, making it an excellent option for vertical gardening. Trellis frames can be easily installed along the sides of the bed to support climbing plants such as tomatoes, cucumbers, or peas.
Mesh Pest Covers
Mesh covers can be added to protect your plants from insects and other pests. These covers fit securely over the top of the bed, allowing for proper ventilation while shielding your crops.
Hoop-House Roofs
For year-round gardening, consider adding a hoop-house roof to the bed. This addition creates a mini greenhouse effect, extending the growing season and providing protection from frost.
Micro-Drip Irrigation
To ensure efficient water distribution, integrate a micro-drip irrigation system with your raised bed. This system delivers water directly to the plant roots, reducing water waste and improving soil moisture retention.
Shade Cloths
If you live in a particularly hot climate, adding a shade cloth over your raised bed can help protect plants from excessive sunlight and heat. This is especially beneficial for delicate crops like lettuce and herbs.
Self-Watering Reservoirs
A self-watering reservoir can be installed beneath the raised bed to provide consistent moisture to the plants. This is a great option for reducing maintenance and ensuring that plants receive enough water, especially during dry spells.