How to Build a Gabion Raised Bed

Below is a step by step guide on how to build a raised bed made from gabion baskets

• Tools Required: Protective gloves, Tape measure, Wire cutter, Plier
• Materials Required: Gabion wire cages, Geotextile, Stone, Helicals, Gabion wire, Soil

Step 1) Measure Your Space

• Measure the space where you plan to place your raised bed.
• Position it in direct sunlight, near the kitchen, or close to daily activities for convenience.
• Ensure the ground is level by digging out high spots or adding paver sand or gravel to raise lower areas.

Step 2) Draw a Plan with Measurements

• The general dimensions for a raised bed are a width of 45cm to 1.2m and a length of 1.2m to 3m.
• The depth should be at least 45cm to accommodate the root balls of kitchen garden plants.
• Adjust based on your preferences and the specific needs of your plants.

Step 3) Calculate What You’ll Need

• In the process of how to build a gabion raised bed, calculate how many baskets you will need for your structure.
• Additionally, determine the amount of helicals and stones required for your project.

Step 4) Assemble Baskets Without Lids

• Start assembling the gabions required for your structure.
• At this stage, avoid securing the lid panel so you can fill the gabions with stones.
• Alternatively, you can remove the lid and set it aside for later use.

Step 5) Place in Final Location

• Position the gabions in their final location, ensuring the adjoining corners are pushed together as closely as possible.
  

Step 6) Attach Baskets Together

• To prevent any movement, secure the adjoining corners of the baskets at both the top and bottom with a piece of tying wire.

Step 7) Cut Off Excess

• Cut off any excess length of helical or tying wire as needed using wire cutters.
• Then, use pliers to pinch each end of the helical wire to secure it and prevent it from slipping out.

Step 8) Fill with Stone

• Fill each basket with the amount of stones you’ve calculated.

Step 9) Secure the Lids

• Secure the lids using tying wire at both the front and back.
• Make sure they rest comfortably on the stones without any gaps.

Step 10) Add Geotextile

• The inner side of your structure should be covered with geotextile to prevent soil and roots from pushing their way through the stones.

Step 11) Fill with Soil

• Fill the inner side with a fertile, free-draining soil mixture.
• Finally, you can use a rake to level the soil.

Step 12) Start Planting

• You can now begin planting in your diy planters and look forward to enjoying the fruits and vegetables!