RaisedBedHead

Hey, garden aficionados and DIY daredevils! Welcome back to the wacky world of RaisedBedHead, where we believe gardening should be less about perfection and more about expression. Today, we’re embarking on a journey to construct the ultimate (and easiest) raised bed garden using none other than Oldcastle gardening blocks. Why? Because they’re like LEGO for grown-ups, and who doesn’t love an adult excuse to play with blocks (and bonus that it is also cheap)?

Step 1: Gather Your Grown-Up LEGOs

First things first, make a beeline to your local home improvement store and load up on Oldcastle blocks. These bad boys are the sturdy, interlocking wonders that will form the fortress for your verdant dreams. Don’t forget to wink at the bewildered onlookers as you claim your gardening treasure.

The Oldcastle blocks are perfect for 2 by 6 by whatever length boards you like. I prefer to place boards every four feet to prevent bowing. Your home improvement store can also cut the boards to your desired length.

These blocks weigh in at about 22 lbs each, so take care when lifting. You’ll also need some gloves, a hammer or sledgehammer, and your boards.

Step 2: Location, Location, Location!

Choose a spot in your yard garden where the sun kisses the earth just right. You want your plants to bask in the glory of sunlight without getting sunburnt. Remember, even plants need their SPF (Sunlight Protection Factor). Check for a spot with decent drainage and that is also fairly level. You may need to break that shovel out to level your blocks and boards.

Step 3: Assemble Your Masterpiece

Channel your inner architect and start stacking those Oldcastle blocks. The beauty of these blocks is that they require no mortar, no mess, and definitely no swearing. Stack them in a rectangle, square, or even a pentagon, if you’re feeling geometrically adventurous. Just make sure it’s level, or your carrots might grow up with an identity crisis.

The Oldcastle blocks have a small hole in the middle that is used for rebar. Get a piece of rebar the same height as your bricks piled up (they are 6 inches each, so you do the math! Stack your blocks and then pound the rebar with your sledgehammer or hammer through so your hard work won’t shift or go anywhere else over time.

Step 4: The Great Fill-Up

Once your blocky base is ready, it’s time to fill it with the best soil mix your plants could dream of. Think of it as creating the perfect bed for your green babies to snooze in. A mix of topsoil, compost, and a bit of sand should do the trick. Don’t want to make your own soil? No shame in that game. You can looked for a quality raised bed soil from your local home improvement store or garden center, or contact a local supplier for a good deal on bulk raised bed soil.

Step 5: Plant, Water, Bask in Your Accomplishment, Repeat

Now for the grand finale—plant your seeds or seedlings, give them a good drink, and stand back to admire your handiwork. You’ve just built a raised garden bed that’s as sturdy as your commitment to not taking life too seriously.

So, there you have it, folks. Using Oldcastle gardening blocks to build your raised bed garden is not just easy; it’s a quick, affordable, and satisfying way to transform your yard or garden and get growing. Remember, in the kingdom of RaisedBedHead, we’re all about embracing the joy of gardening, imperfections included. Now go forth, build, plant, and let the good times grow!

Do you also love the Oldcastle blocks? If so, drop a comment below.