Creating a new garden bed is a fun project that will liven up your outdoor area and create a space you truly love. In the video above, This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook walks through the steps to plant a new garden bed, from selecting the right plants to the best installation techniques.
Choosing the Right Garden Bed Location
Before you start planting, take time to think about the ideal location for your new garden bed. Consider the following:
- Drainage: Make sure the area has good drainage to prevent waterlogging
- Proximity to water sources: Easy access to water for irrigation
- Soil quality: Rich, well-drained soil promotes healthy plant growth
- Sunlight exposure: Most plants require at least six hours of direct sunlight daily
- Visibility: Position the garden in a spot where it can be enjoyed from your home
Pay attention to your yard throughout the day to identify sunny spots. If you’re working with a shaded area, choose shade-tolerant plants instead.
Preparing the Soil for a Garden
Proper soil preparation is essential for a healthy garden. Follow these steps to make sure your plants have the best foundation:
- Remove existing grass and weeds from the area.
- Test the soil pH and nutrient levels using a home testing kit or by sending a sample to a local extension office.
- Amend the soil based on the test results, adding organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and structure.
- Till or turn the soil to a depth of 8–12 inches, breaking up any clumps and removing rocks or debris.
- Level the area with a rake, creating a smooth surface for planting.
Healthy soil is one of the most important aspects of successful gardening, so make sure your plants get all the nutrients they need.
Selecting the Right Plants for Your Garden Bed
Choosing plants that will thrive in your area is also necessary for a successful garden. Consider the below factors when making your selections.
Climate and Hardiness Zones
Pick plants that are used to your local climate and hardiness zone. This information is typically available on plant tags or from your local nursery. A plant’s hardiness zone indicates the regions where it can grow based on minimum winter temperatures, so check that your choices can handle the weather year-round.
Sun and Shade Requirements
Match plants to the light conditions in your garden bed. Some plants flourish in full sun, while others prefer partial shade or full shade. Understanding the specific requirements helps you be sure that each plant receives the right amount of light.
Mature Size and Growth Habits
As Cook says, it’s important to consider the maturity size of plants. Check the plant tags for information on the expected height and width at full size. This will help you space plants properly and avoid overcrowding as they grow.
Seasonal Interest
For year-round beauty, include a mix of plants that bloom in different seasons. Consider adding evergreen shrubs to keep color throughout the year. Perennials can provide continuity in your garden, as they come back each year, while annuals add bursts of color and variety each season.
Plant Types
A well-designed garden often includes a variety of plant types, such as the following:
- Annuals: Give gorgeous pops of color
- Edibles: Grow fresh produce
- Ornamental grasses: Add texture and movement
- Perennials: Offer long-lasting color and texture
- Trees and shrubs: Provide structure and year-round beauty
A diverse selection boosts the look of your garden and promotes a healthier ecosystem by attracting beneficial insects and wildlife.
Creating a Planting Plan for Your Garden Bed
Before you start digging, create a planting plan to visualize your garden’s layout. This step will help create a balanced and harmonious design.
- Sketch your garden bed on paper, noting its dimensions and any existing features.
- Arrange plants on your sketch, considering their mature sizes and growth habits.
- Group plants with similar water and light requirements together.
- Create dimension with varying plant heights, textures, and colors.
- Include focal points, such as a specimen plant or garden art, to draw the eye.
Laying out your plants in their nursery containers before planting allows you to imagine the final arrangement and make adjustments as needed. This method gives each plant ample space to grow, and the overall design remains cohesive.
Garden Planting Techniques
Good planting techniques are vital for the long-term health of your garden. Follow these steps for the best results.
Dig the Holes
Dig holes that are two to three times wider than the plant’s container. This gives the roots room to spread out and establish themselves in the surrounding soil. The hole’s depth should allow the plant to sit slightly higher than the surrounding soil, which helps prevent water from pooling around the stem.
Prepare Root-Bound Plants
Plants from nurseries may be root-bound, with roots circling the container. Gently loosen these roots with your hands or a small hand fork before planting. This encourages the roots to grow outward into the surrounding soil.
Backfill and Water
- Place the plant in the hole, checking that it’s at the correct depth.
- Backfill with soil, pushing down gently to eliminate air pockets.
- Create a small basin around the plant to help direct water to the roots.
- Water thoroughly immediately after planting to settle the soil and eliminate any remaining air pockets.
Planting everything correctly from the start helps your plants take root quickly, reducing the risk of transplant shock and encouraging growth.
Mulching and Ongoing Garden Bed Care
After planting, apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic mulch around your plants. Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Keep the mulch a few inches away from plant stems to prevent rot.
Watering
Consistent watering helps plants develop strong root systems, and ample watering encourages roots to grow deeper into the soil, making them more resilient during dry spells. Follow these guidelines:
- Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season.
- Gradually reduce watering frequency as plants become established.
- Use soaker hoses or drip irrigation for efficient watering.
Fertilizing
Effective fertilization supports plant health and blooming, but overuse can hinder growth and attract pests. Fertilize your new garden bed based on your soil test results and plant needs with the following methods:
- Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring
- Follow package instructions for application rates
- Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to excessive growth and weak plants
Pruning and Maintenance
Regular maintenance keeps your garden looking its best, so do the following:
- Remove dead or diseased plant material promptly.
- Deadhead overgrown flowers to encourage continued blooming.
- Divide perennials every few years to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.
- Prune shrubs and trees as needed to maintain shape and size.
Attracting Wildlife With Your New Garden Bed
Adding plants that attract beneficial wildlife can further boost your garden’s ecosystem. Plants like butterfly bushes can attract butterflies and honeybees. Consider adding:
- Berry-producing shrubs: Provide food for birds
- Host plants: Support caterpillars and butterfly larvae
- Native flowering plants: Encourage pollinators such as bees and butterflies
- Water features: Attract amphibians and birds
By fostering a wildlife-friendly environment, you’ll support biodiversity and natural pest control.