How to Build a Raised Bed with Retaining Wall Bricks

Freestanding garden beds built above ground are known as raised beds. “Raised” indicates that the bed’s soil level is higher than the soil around it. The term “bed” suggests a space that is manageable without really entering the planting area. For structural stability and erosion control, raised beds are frequently encased in box-like frames.

Brick, rot-resistant lumber, landscaping timbers, or concrete blocks are some of the materials that can be used to build raised bed frames. For gardeners who prefer not to bend over while working, beds can also be raised.

Breakdown of The Steps to Build a Raised Bed with Retaining Wall Bricks

Step	Description
1	Excavation Dig a level trench approximately as deep as the height of one of the bricks. Make it level with a square shovel. If needed, tamp the bottom of your trench for stability. Particularly if there’s sod, it is harder to prepare the ground.
2	Lay the First Course Use commercial grade landscape fabric in the trench, with excess towards the interior. Lay the first course on the fabric to hold it in place. Line the interior of the bricks with fabric to prevent dirt from leaking out. Do minor grade adjustments to keep it level using a trowel.
3	Lay the Remaining Courses Use landscape block adhesive between the courses to add stability. Squirt adhesive and lay blocks on top of it. Level the second row on top of the first, using a hammer and chisel for any size adjustments. Scoring the brick for cuts should be done around the brick edges.
4	Finishing it Up Backfill the bed after the final course is laid. Plant and fold remaining fabric inward, securing it in place. Top with mulch for neatness.
Materials	Square Shovel Commercial Grade Landscape Fabric Landscape Fabric Pins Retaining Wall Bricks Landscape Block Adhesive Dirt for backfilling Masonry Chisel 3-Pound Sledgehammer
Tips	For a long, curvy wall, a design can span 500 feet along a fence. Experiment with multiple tiers or add smaller beds within a larger layout. Retaining wall bricks are preferred due to their design for stability. The project can be completed within a few hours for small beds or a weekend for larger beds.

What Is the Difference Between a Raised Bed and A Retaining Wall?

Retaining walls must be sturdy enough to support both soil and water. They are typically constructed of reinforced concrete, concrete blocks, or wood. Drainage is often necessary to alleviate the accumulation of water behind the wall. Raised beds don’t have to be as hefty or robust as retaining walls. Both kinds serve to harmonize your garden style by adding structure or screening.

Conclusion

In this piece, you learned what raised beds are, the step-by-step process to build a raised bed with retaining wall bricks, the materials and tips needed for construction, and the difference between a raised bed and a retaining wall. For more informative guides, stay connected to Buildersviller.