How to Build an L Shaped Raised Garden Bed – A Step-by-Step Guide

An L shaped raised garden bed is a great way to maximize planting space in a corner or along a fence. The 90 degree angle design lets you efficiently fit more plants into compact areas. Constructing a custom L shaped planter box is also relatively easy with basic DIY skills and common materials.

In this detailed guide you’ll learn how to build an L shaped raised bed from scratch to grow flowers herbs, vegetables and more. We’ll break the process down into simple steps.

Benefits of an L Shaped Garden Planter

Before getting into the building steps, let’s look at some of the advantages of an L shaped planter box:

• Makes use of wasted corner space in your yard or garden

• Allows you to fit more plants into a small footprint.

• Creates an organized, clean-lined growing area.

• Elevates plants for improved drainage and easier access.

• Provides a border to separate and contain different plants.

• Gives vertical height for vining crops like tomatoes or cucumbers.

• Prevents grass and weeds from invading the planting bed.

• Gives total control over the soil composition.

With the right construction techniques, you can build durable L shaped planter boxes tailored to your garden.

Planning Your Custom L Shaped Garden Bed

When designing a DIY L shaped raised bed, consider these factors:

• Location – Choose a level, sunny spot with access to water. Avoid trees and roots.

• Size – Base the lengths of each side on the space available. Standard widths are 3-5 feet.

• Height – Standard heights are 10-18 inches tall. Go taller for deep rooted plants.

• Shape – The “L” can have equal or different length sides.

• Materials – Rot resistant woods like cedar and redwood work best.

• Soil – Use high quality potting mix and amendments.

Sketch plans to visualize the layout. Measure the space and note dimensions. This will determine material needs.

Constructing the L Shaped Garden Bed Frame

For the structure you’ll need:

• 2×6 or 2×8 boards for the sides (cedar or redwood)

• 2×2 boards for corner supports

• 3″ exterior screws

• Exterior wood glue

• Power drill and drivers

• Saw (circular, miter or hand saw)

Follow these steps:

• Cut 2×6 or 2×8 boards to the lengths required for the two long sides based on measurements.

• Butt joint and screw the corners together using short 2×2 blocks cut to fit inside. Stagger screws.

• Apply wood glue at joints for added strength.

• Attach two shorter boards cut to width to complete the “L” shape.

• Add support boards every 4-5 feet along the length.

• Pre-drill holes to prevent splitting. Use exterior rated screws.

• Check corners are 90 degree angles before securing.

Once the sturdy wooden frame is built, it’s ready for installation and filling.

Installing and Filling the L Shaped Planter Box

To set up the garden bed:

• Level and secure the frame in the desired location.

• Dig trenches or outline with boards.

• Loosen and grade the soil beneath to improve drainage.

• Line the bottom with weed cloth to block grass and roots.

• Fill with a mix of potting soil, compost, manure and amendments.

• Mound soil 2-3 inches below the rim to leave room for mulch later.

• Consider adding drip irrigation tubing if desired.

• Top off with bark mulch once planted to retain moisture and prevent weeds.

Use high quality potting mix for optimal drainage and nutrition. Now it’s time to choose plants!

What to Plant in an L Shaped Raised Garden Bed

L shaped planter boxes are great for all kinds of flowers, herbs and vegetables:

• Tomato, pepper and eggplant plants. Trellis one side.

• Pole beans, peas or cucumbers grown vertically.

• Lettuce, kale, spinach and salad greens.

• Root vegetables like radishes, carrots and beets.

• Herbs such as basil, parsley, oregano and chives.

• Annual flowers like zinnias, petunias and marigolds.

• Melons, squash or pumpkin vines.

The angled design lets you efficiently incorporate different plants using dividers or alternating rows. Get creative with combinations!

Maintaining Your L Shaped Garden Planter

Follow these tips for keeping your custom L shaped raised bed looking great:

• Replenish mulch as needed to control weeds and retain moisture.

• Prune overgrown foliage and remove spent plants promptly.

• Check soil moisture weekly. Water when the top inches become dry.

• Fertilize throughout the growing season as required.

• Protect young plants with cloches or cold frames.

• Repair any cracks in the wood. Replace rotten boards as needed.

• Empty, amend and refill the soil mix each year for optimal nutrition.

With proper care, a DIY L shaped raised bed can provide many years of gardening enjoyment. The effort to build one is well worth it!

Customizing Your L Shaped Planter Design

One benefit of constructing your own L shaped raised bed is you can customize it perfectly for your space and needs:

• Make it taller for deep rooted crops or those who need extra height.

• Use thinner boards for shorter, more lightweight portable planters.

• Stain or paint the wood frame to coordinate with your outdoor color scheme.

• Add trellises, arches, hooks and other accessories.

• Include a bench or ledge on one side for seating.

• Attach decorative trim, latticework, casters or other finishes.

• Build a matching lid or protective cover to extend the season.

With a weekend DIY project, you can create a functional and beautiful custom L shaped raised bed. Grow an abundant vegetable and flower garden in the wasted corner space of your yard!