If you’re short on space but still want to enjoy your own little gardening spot, an above ground garden bed is the perfect solution. Not only are they easy to construct, they’re also versatile, easy to maintain, and don’t require you to have extensive knowledge of gardening. All you’ll need is time, a few tools and materials, and you can have your own above ground garden bed in no time. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Measure and Select Your Location. Before you start building, it’s important to make sure you select the right spot for your above ground garden. Choose a location that gets plenty of sunlight and pick one that’s big enough to accommodate the size and shape of your garden. It’s also helpful to measure the size of your garden before you start, so you can be sure your measurements are accurate.

Step 2: Prepare Your Materials. You’ll need a few materials for your garden bed, including boards for the frame, screws or nails, soil, and plants. Be sure to buy wood that’s specifically built for outdoor use, and pick one that’s resistant to rot, such as cedar or redwood.

Step 3: Assemble the Garden Bed Frame. Start by constructing the frame for your garden bed. First, attach the corner posts and the sides of your frame. Then, drill in the screws or nails to hold the frame together. The last step is to attach the boards on the bottom of the frame to prevent the soil from spilling out when it’s filled up.

Step 4: Add the Soil and Plants. Now it’s time to fill up your garden bed with soil and plants. Aim for a depth of at least 6 to 8 inches of soil, and be sure to pack it in firmly. Make sure that the soil is evenly distributed throughout the garden bed, and don’t forget to add compost and fertilizer if desired. Lastly, add in some plants to complete your garden bed.

Step 5: Monitor Your Garden Bed. It’s important to monitor your above ground garden bed and make sure the soil is drained properly. Also, be sure to water your garden bed regularly to keep the soil moist, but not overly saturated. Finally, pay attention to how your plants are growing.