Last Updated on September 20, 2024
How to Build a Raised Garden Bed with Drip Irrigation – Inexpensive & Easy
Raised beds with drip irrigation are a great way to grow a wide variety of plants in your backyard. In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the steps you need to follow on how to build a raised garden bed with drip irrigation, as well as some tips and tricks we’ve learned along the way.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
The first step in How to Build a Raised Garden Bed with Drip Irrigation is gathering the necessary materials. For this project, you’ll need:
- Douglas fir two by tens (or cedar if you prefer a more rot-resistant wood)
- Four-by-four inch posts
- Screws
- A saw
- A flat surface
- A tape measure
- A level
- A Drill
- Compost or soil
- Drip irrigation supplies (such as tubing, emitters, and connectors)
Step 2: Measure and Cut the Wood
The first step in building your raised bed is to measure and cut the wood for the frame. To do this, you’ll need to decide on the size of your raised bed. For this example, we’ll be building a four-by-four-foot box.
To start, measure out four-foot-long boards and cut them with a saw. Then, lay them out on a flat surface and make sure that the angles are square. Use a tape measure to check that each opposite corner measures the same, ensuring that the box is exactly square. Once you’re satisfied with the measurements, use screws to tack the boards together.
Step 3: Cut and Install the Corner Blocks & Leveling
Next, you’ll need to cut blocks for the corners of your raised bed. These blocks will help to secure the corners of the bed in place. For this project, we’ll be using four screws on each block.
Next, it’s important to make sure that your raised bed is level. To do this, dig out the perimeter of the bed and level out the ground. Then, use the removed soil to fill in the bed, ensuring that it is level.
Step 4: Add Soil or Compost
Once your raised bed is level, it’s time to add soil or compost. Depending on the size of your project, you may need to bring in soil or compost from a supplier. To find a supplier in your area, try using maps and searching for “organic compost near me.” Also, see our helpful soil calculator to determine how much soil you will need to fill your raised beds.
When adding soil or compost to your raised bed, be sure to overfill it a bit. The soil will settle over time, so it’s better to start with a bit too much than not enough.
Step 5: Install the Drip Irrigation System
Now that your raised bed is filled with soil or compost, it’s time to install the drip irrigation system. Drip irrigation is a great way to deliver water directly to the roots of your plants, ensuring that they get the hydration they need without wasting water.
To install the drip irrigation system, follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. You’ll need to lay out the tubing and connect it to the emitters, which are placed at the base of each plant. Be sure to use the proper connectors to ensure that the system is secure and functioning properly. I recommend watching the video at the top of this post for detailed instructions on how I set this up.
I like using drip works, below is a helpful kit.
I also like Garden in Minutes Garden Grids.
Their Irrigation Kits are very easy to install. Use Code OBG7 for 7% off your order by clicking here.
Step 6: Plant Your Seeds or Transplant Your Plants
Now that your raised bed with drip irrigation is complete, it’s time to plant your seeds or transplant your plants. Follow the instructions provided by the seed packet or plant to ensure that you’re providing the proper care for your plants.
Remember to check the drip irrigation system regularly to ensure that it is functioning properly and providing your plants with enough water. With proper care and attention, your raised bed with drip irrigation will provide you with a bountiful harvest of fresh produce, herbs, or flowers.
Tips and Tricks
- Establishing new raised beds in the fall season can be beneficial. The soil will have time to settle and be ready for planting in the spring, and you won’t have to deal with the added challenges of planting during the snowmelt or extended winter seasons.
- Compost suppliers are often less busy in the fall, so it’s a good time to purchase compost for your new raised bed.
- Don’t be afraid to overfill your raised bed with soil or compost. The soil will settle over time, so it’s better to start with a bit too much than not enough.
- Check your drip irrigation system regularly to ensure that it is functioning properly and providing your plants with enough water.
- Drip Irrigation Timer – See my Blog Post on which I think this drip irrigation timer is the best.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be well on your way to building a successful raised bed with drip irrigation in your backyard. Happy gardening!
Helpful Items for Raised Bed Gardening & Drip Irrigation
Raised Bed Kits
→ Dripworks Raised Bed Kit on Amazon
→ Garden Grid Watering System | Preassembled Drip Irrigation – Use code EasyGardening for $5 off orders of $75+
1/2″ Main Line Parts
→ Distribution Tubing
→ Elbow Fitting
→ Coupler (to connect main lines)
→ Tee Fitting
→ End Cap (used on the top of bed headers)
→ On/Off Valve
→ Clips/Straps (to secure the line to raised beds)
1/4″ Emitter Line Parts
→ Emitter Tubing
→ “Goof” Plugs (caps tubing)
→ 1/4″ Transfer Barb (transfers water from 1/2″ main line to 1/4″ emitter tubing)
→ Drip Irrigation Hole Punch Tool
Miscellaneous
→ Faucet Adapter for 1/2″ Main Line
→ Attachment for blowing out lines in winter
→ Timer I Use (This is the best timer after trying several)
→ Garden Hose Quick Connects (I use these on all my hoses)
Need Help Planning Your Garden?
A great way to get started is by having your custom garden plans created with our tool Plan My Garden. Plan My Garden generates custom printable PDF schedules, and plant placement based on what crops you want to grow and your garden layout. Having a well-planned garden is essential for a successful growing season, so take advantage of this planning tool to set your garden up for success!
