If a new flower bed is on your garden project list, October is a good opportunity to draw up the plan and price the materials. Start with the space you have and the plants you want to grow, then choose the timber. You do not need to order everything before you know the dimensions.
Mark out the space first
Use string or a garden hose to outline the proposed bed. Walk around it and check that you can reach the middle comfortably from the available sides. Leave room for everyday jobs such as moving a wheelbarrow, watering and maintaining the surrounding paths.
Consider light, access to water and drainage. If you are placing the bed on paving or another hard surface, its drainage needs to be part of the design from the start.
Choose a timber style
For a substantial border, browse our garden railway sleepers. TMG's range includes green treated sleepers with a 200mm × 100mm section and a choice of lengths.
For a board-style planter, see our treated garden planter timber, listed at 225mm × 38mm × 2.4m. These products have different dimensions, so compare them against your drawing before working out quantities.
If you intend to grow edible crops, confirm the timber treatment is suitable for that use before buying. Also agree the corner joints, supports and fixings for your chosen design; a materials list alone is not a construction plan.
Calculate the amount of fill
Use the bed's internal measurements to estimate its volume:
Internal length × internal width × filling depth = volume in cubic metres.
For example, an internal space measuring 2m × 1m, filled to a depth of 0.3m, holds 0.6m³, or 600 litres. That is a planning example, not the finished capacity of a particular timber kit. Allow for settling and choose a soil mix suited to your planting.
Plan around the ground conditions
Raised beds can be built at different times of year, but avoid working soil when it is waterlogged or frozen. Once filled, let the material settle before checking the level and topping up. The RHS raised bed guide has further advice on siting, construction and filling.
Make your October shopping list
Record the outside dimensions, desired height, timber sizes and calculated fill volume. Add the agreed fixings and any cutting requirements. Our garden sleeper quantity guide can help you prepare.
Contact TMG Building Supplies on 0191 488 9989 or bring your drawing to our Swalwell yard to discuss the materials for your project.