Wickerwork has been used for centuries to create sturdy, beautiful structures. By weaving together flexible branches or twigs, mainly from willow or hazel, you can create a durable and aesthetically pleasing raised garden bed.

Required materials

  • Flexible branches or twigs (willow or hazel are ideal)
  • Stable posts (approx. 60 cm longer than the desired height of the bed)
  • Hammer or hammer
  • Garden shears
  • Gardening gloves
  • Tape measure
  • Soil and compost mix

Step by step instructions

1.  Planning and design

  • Determine the size and location of your raised bed. Make sure it receives adequate sunlight depending on the plants you plan to grow.
  • Sketch a rough design, including dimensions and shape.

2.  Preparing the website

  • Clear the area of ​​weeds and debris.
  • Level the floor where you want the bed to be placed.
  • Mark the outline of the bed with string or chalk.

3.  Collect materials

  • Collect long, flexible branches or twigs. Willow and hazel are preferred for their flexibility and strength.
  • Cut the branches into even lengths, taking into account the height and circumference of your bed.

4.  Installation of inserts

  • Cut the stakes to the desired length (bed height plus 2 feet).
  • Drive the stakes into the ground at regular intervals around the marked area, so that about 60 cm of the stake protrudes above the ground.

5.  Weaving wickerwork

  • Starting at one corner, weave the flexible branches horizontally between the stakes, alternating the side on which each branch begins to create a sturdy, interlocking structure.
  • If necessary, gently bend the branches and intertwine them tightly.
  • Cut off excess lengths with pruning shears.

6.  Build the walls

  • Add more layers of braided branches until the desired height is reached.
  • Make sure each layer is tightly woven together for stability.

7.  Securing the top

  • Tuck the ends of the last layer of branches into the mesh to secure them.
  • Optionally add a stiffer border on top for a cleaner finish.

8.  Fill with soil

  • Mix garden soil with compost to provide plants with a nutrient-rich environment.
  • Fill the wickerwork raised bed with the soil-compost mixture.

9.  Plants

  • Choose plants that suit the size of the bed and the available sunlight.
  • Plant your seeds or seedlings according to their specific needs.
Raised bed for the garden

10.  Maintenance

  • Water your plants regularly and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
  • Add mulch to retain moisture.
  • Prune and maintain branches as needed to keep them neat and intact.

Building a wicker raised bed is not only a great DIY project, but also an eco-friendly way to enhance your garden. While this traditional technique is time-consuming, it results in a functional and attractive addition to any outdoor space.

Tips

  • For longer lasting lichens, use freshly cut, green wood.
  • The flexibility of the branches is crucial for easier weaving.
  • Regular care of the wickerwork extends its lifespan.

By following these steps, you can create a beautiful and sustainable raised bed that will serve you well for many years. Happy gardening!