How to Build a Raised Garden Bed
In this article, we are going to guide you through the process of building a practical and attractive 3×10 raised garden bed that will provide a perfect space for your plants to thrive. This step-by-step plan is designed to be easy to follow, even for those with limited carpentry experience.
| Unit | Qty | Size | Note | |
| Pressure-treated lumber (1˝x 4˝) | pcs | 7 | 6´ | Studs, Top plates |
| Pressure-treated lumber (2˝x 6˝) | pcs | 11 | 12´ | Joists |
| Pressure-treated lumber (2˝x 8˝) | pcs | 7 | 8´ | Seat elements |
| Pressure-treated lumber (3˝x 3˝) | pcs | 5 | 8´ | Studs, Joists |
| Landscape fabric | sq.ft. | 35 | ||
| Wood screws (2˝) | pcs | 110 | ||
| Wood screws (3˝) | pcs | 60 | ||
| Wood screws (5˝) | pcs | 120 | ||
| Galvanizated nails (2˝) | pcs | 200 |
| Garden Bed Main Frame | Unit | Qty | Size | Note |
| Pressure-treated lumber (2 1/2˝ x 2 1/2˝) | pcs | 4 | 1´-10˝ | Studs |
| Pressure-treated lumber (1 1/2˝ x 5 1/2˝) | pcs | 8 | 10´ | Joists |
| Pressure-treated lumber (1 1/2˝ x 5 1/2˝) | pcs | 8 | 3´-3˝ | Joists |
| Pressure-treated lumber (3/4˝ x 3 1/2˝) | pcs | 6 | 1´-10˝ | Studs |
| Pressure-treated lumber (3/4˝ x 3 1/2˝) | pcs | 4 | 3´-8˝ | Top plates |
| Pressure-treated lumber (3/4˝ x 3 1/2˝) | pcs | 2 | 3´-4˝ | Top plates |
| Landscape fabric | sq.ft. | 35 | ||
| Bench | Unit | Qty | Size | Note |
| Pressure-treated lumber (1 1/2˝ x 7 1/4˝) | pcs | 10 | 2´-2˝ | Seat elements |
| Pressure-treated lumber (1 1/2˝ x 7 1/4˝) | pcs | 5 | 3´-11˝ | Seat elements |
| Pressure-treated lumber (2 1/2˝ x 2 1/2˝) | pcs | 7 | 2´-7˝ | Joists |
| Pressure-treated lumber (2 1/2˝ x 2 1/2˝) | pcs | 2 | 3´-3˝ | Joists |
| Pressure-treated lumber (2 1/2˝ x 2 1/2˝) | pcs | 4 | 2´-1/2˝ | Studs |
| Fasteners & Hardware | Unit | Qty | Size | Note |
| Wood screws (2˝) | pcs | 110 | ||
| Wood screws (3˝) | pcs | 60 | ||
| Wood screws (5˝) | pcs | 120 | ||
| Galvanizated nails (2˝) | pcs | 200 |
Step 1: Choose and Prepare Location for Garden Bed
1.1. A good option for raised garden beds is building them on the south side of your home so that there will be plenty of sun and wall space if you decide to fasten a few additional hanging plants. Another choice is to place the beds on either the east or west side, so that they’ll get morning or afternoon sun. Just be sure to avoid any area that’s in the shade most of the day. Prepare the area by using a flat-blade shovel to remove the grass from an area measuring 3’ wide x 10’ long.
Consider these factors:
- Sun exposure
- Easily Accessible
- Water proximity
- Drainage
- Wind direction
Step 2: Assemble the Main Frame
2.1. Build the main frame of the garden bed out of pressure-treated 3x3s, 2x6s, and 1x4s. Start by cutting four 3x3s to 1′-10″ to form the vertical corner posts.
2.2. Next, cut eight 2x6s to 10′ and eight 2x6s to 3′-3″. These boards will form the front, rear, and end walls of the garden bed. Fasten the 2x6s to the 3×3 corner posts using 3” decking screws.
2.3. Then cut six 1×4 cleats to 1′-10″ and use 2” screws to fasten them vertically to the inside surface of the 2×6 walls, as shown below.
2.4. Using a carpenter’s framing square, check the corners to make sure they are 90°.
Step 3: Install Landscape Fabric
3.1. Cut a 3’ x 10’ strip of landscaping fabric, and fasten it to the bottom of the garden bed using staples or 1” roofing nails. The fabric will block out weeds, but allow excess water to drain out of the bed.
Step 4: Assemble the Top Plates
4.1. Trim the top edges of the garden bed with pressure-treated 1x4s, as shown in the drawing below. Cut four 1x4s to 3′-8″ and two 1x4s to 3′-4″.
4.2. Fasten the 1×4 trim pieces to the top edges of the 2×6 walls with 2″ screws.
4.3. Using a carpenter’s framing square, check the corners to make sure they are 90°.
Step 5: Assemble the Bench
5.1. Build the bench that straddles the middle of the garden bed out of pressure-treated 3x3s and 2x6s. Cut ten 2x6s to 2′-2″ and five 2x6s to 3′-11″. These boards will form the top and ends of the bench seat, as shown below.
5.2. Next, cut thirteen pieces of 3x3s to create the structural frame of the bench. Cut seven 3x3s to 2′-7″, two to 3′-3″, and four to 2′-1/2″.
5.3. Fasten together the frame parts beams with 3″ and 5″ screws.
5.4. Using a speed square, check the corners to make sure they are 90°.
By following these step-by-step instructions and using quality materials, you can create a sturdy and long-lasting garden bed that will enhance your outdoor living area. With a little effort and dedication, you’ll soon be enjoying the fruits of your labor in your very own 3×10 garden bed.
About the Author
Joseph Truini
Joseph Truini is a home improvement authority with over 30 years of experience. As an author, journalist, and on-air personality, he's a trusted source for practical advice, appearing in publications like Popular Mechanics and This Old House. Joseph's books, including the popular "Building a Shed," offer clear guidance for DIY enthusiasts of all levels.
