How to Build Your Own L-Shaped Raised Garden Bed

For gardeners working with a small yard, going vertical and making smart use of space is key. An L-shaped raised garden bed is a great option to maximize planting in a corner spot. With a design that wraps around a corner, you can fit more gardening area into a tight footprint.

In this article we’ll walk through how to make an L-shaped raised bed from scratch using simple materials. With a weekend of work you can create the perfect planting foundation to grow veggies, herbs, or flowers even in the smallest yard.

Benefits of an L-Shaped Garden Bed Design

An L-shaped raised bed offers several advantages:

• Fits neatly into a corner of the yard, deck or patio.
• The angled sides create more overall planting area.
• Provides easy access from two sides so you can tend the entire bed.
• Allows you to group complimentary plants that like similar soil and watering.
• Defines a planting space and contains soil in one tidy spot.
• Elevates plants up off the ground away from pests.
• Can be sized to suit your space – make as big or small as needed.

With a bit of simple carpentry, you can create a custom L-shaped bed using inexpensive wood boards. Or you can connect modular garden bed kits to form the L-shape too.

Planning Your L-Shaped Garden Bed

Before building, think about the optimal size and location:

• Measure the space where you want to place the bed. Account for being able to access all sides.
• Decide on the length of the two sides of the L-shape based on space. Typically make them equal.
• Pick material and desired height. A taller bed like 18″ provides more root zone.
• Determine if treating the wood for rot resistance is worthwhile in your climate.
• Make sure you have access to water nearby for irrigation.

Now let’s go through the DIY process step-by-step:

DIY L-Shaped Garden Bed How-To:

Gather Supplies

• Untreated wood boards – cedar, redwood, pine. For an 4×8′ bed, you’ll need approx:
  • 4 – 8′ boards for the sides
  • 2 – 4′ boards for the ends
• Landscaping fabric (to line bottom)
• Stakes or crossover boards for corner reinforcement
• 3-4″ exterior wood screws
• Power drill and drivers
• Saw (circular, jig or miter)
• Tape measure and pencil
• Shovel
• Level
• Corner braces (optional)
• Wood glue (optional)

Cut the Wood Boards to Size

Measure and mark your board cutting lines. Cut the side boards to your desired bed length using a power saw.

Cut two end boards in half to make the corner joint. Having the seam here keeps the long sides intact.

Cut additional small stakes the same height as the bed sides. These will support the corners.

Sand boards and round over any sharp edges.

Assemble the Frame

Lay the boards out to form the L-shape footprint.

Attach the side boards first using wood screws driven from the outside edge.

Then attach the small end boards to form the corner.

Use wood glue here for added strength (optional).

Position the cut corner stakes between the end boards or use metal corner braces. Attach through the boards with additional screws to reinforce the seam.

Level and Fill the Bed

Set the frame in place and level it using shims if needed.

Dig down several inches and lay landscaping fabric. This will prevent weeds from below.

Shovel planting soil into the frame, tamping as you go, until you’ve reached your desired soil depth. Most vegetables need at least 12 inches of soil.

Consider adding a drip irrigation line if water access is limited.

Prevent Pest Damage

There are a few optional steps you can take to further protect your L-shaped bed:

• Line the inside of the bed boards with hardware cloth to keep out burrowing animals.

• Staple chicken wire to the bottom before adding soil to keep out worms and voles.

• Use netting or fabric row covers over plants susceptible to birds and squirrels.

• Elevate the bed on legs or pavers to prevent grass encroachment.

Now that your L-shaped raised bed is assembled and filled, it’s time to plant! With the extra soil depth and more area, an L-shaped design is sure to boost your garden productivity.

Tips for Planting Your New Raised Bed

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your new L-shaped raised garden:

• Stick to a single soil mix throughout the bed so all plants have consistent nutrition and drainage.

• Group plants with similar needs like sun exposure, water requirements and harvest times.

• Use trellises and vertical gardening techniques to maximize planting space.

• Include companion plants that help deter pests and benefit other veggies.

• Rotate annual crop locations each season to prevent disease.

• Include a trellis inside the corner for vining crops like beans, cucumbers or tomatoes.

• Keep one side easily accessible for digging root crops like carrots and potatoes.

• Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to conserve water in the defined space.

• Fertilize throughout the season and replenish soil with compost each year.

Personalize the Design for Your Yard

The great thing about building your own L-shaped raised bed is you can customize the size, height and materials to suit your space. Here are some ideas:

• Use decorative wood boards like cedar with a natural edge or composite decking planks for a unique look.

• Add wheels or casters to the legs so it can be moved.

• Paint or stain the wood a bright, fun color to liven up the yard.

• Extend length or height for deep-rooted plants or crops that need trellising.

• Attach a bench or shelf along one side for gardening storage.

• Add a bottom layer of hardware cloth to keep out burrowers.

• Use modular garden bed kits for easier assembly.

With some simple tools, basic carpentry skills and a weekend of work, you can construct a raised bed that makes the most of your outdoor space. Customize your L-shaped design to create the ideal planting spot!