Pallet Gardening: Growing Plants in Raised Beds

Creating a pallet garden is a wonderful way to grow your own vegetables, herbs, and flowers in a limited space. It's an eco-friendly gardening solution that utilizes wooden pallets as raised beds. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of creating your own pallet garden.

You can view our Pallet Garden Gallery here for ideas and designs for building your own pallet garden.

1. Selecting the Right Pallet

When choosing a pallet, make sure it's safe for use in gardening. Look for pallets that have been heat-treated (marked with an "HT" on the pallet), as these are safe for use in the garden. Avoid chemically treated pallets as they can leach harmful substances into the soil.

2. Preparing the Pallet

Start by cleaning the pallet and removing any nails or splinters. Line the back and sides with a landscaping fabric to hold the soil in place, securing it with a staple gun.

3. Filling the Pallet with Soil

Lay the pallet flat and fill it with good quality potting soil. Make sure the soil is well compacted in between the slats and that the pallet is filled to the top.

4. Planting Your Pallet Garden

Choose plants that are suitable for the depth of your pallet garden. Herbs, lettuce, and other leafy greens are excellent choices. Plant the seedlings in between the slats, ensuring that they are secure.

5. Maintaining Your Pallet Garden

Water your pallet garden regularly, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. Position your pallet garden in a location where it will get adequate sunlight, and rotate it occasionally for even exposure.

In conclusion, pallet gardening is a fantastic, sustainable way to make the most of a small space. With a bit of creativity and effort, you can create a thriving garden that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.