Growing fruit in raised beds has many advantages – they are neat and tidy and at the same time they give you a clearly defined area to grow fruit and veg in. Here are some we’ve been putting to the test
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STANDARD WOODEN RAISED BED
These Standard Wooden Raised Beds are available in five heights (up to 76cm/30in) and 10 length/width sizes. The Scandinavian softwood timber planks come from sustainably managed forests and have been kiln-dried and high pressure treated with a non-toxic preservative. The kit also comes with internal wooden corner fixing posts, galvanised screws and full detailed instructions.
HARROD HORTICULTURAL
www.harrodhorticultural.com
TEL: 0333 400 1500
PRODUCT CODE: GDN-472
PRICE GUIDE: FROM £47
KG VERDICT
This was relatively easy to put together aided by some pre-drilled holes for the screws but you will still need an electric screwdriver to drive them in (see website for recommendations). This is both an elegant and practical raised bed, tastefully designed and suitable for all-year-round vegetable growing. Highly recommended.
BUILD-A-BED
Weatherproof and built to last, this self-assembly raised bed is made from double walled fully recycled uPVC planks. The company offers arrange of standard and bespoke sizes both in terms of length, width and height. The one pictured is 2m (78in) long x 1m (39in) wide x 15cm (6in) high (£43.98).
GARDENSKILL
www.gardenskill.com
TEL: 01902 725055
PRODUCT CODE: N/A
PRICE: FROM £28.98
KG VERDICT
This takes no time at all to assemble – just a matter of slotting the planks together with the connectors provided and knocking in the pins to secure the joins. In an attractive green, these raised beds will last forever so no need to worry about the sides rotting and can be extended very easily (if required) by purchasing further planks and connectors.
TOP PICK
VEGTRUG™ RAISED BED PLANTER
This self-assembly Raised Bed Planter allows you to grow without having to bend or kneel and is suitable for growing shallow rooted vegetables such as radishes or spring onions and salad leaves. It comes with a storage shelf underneath and a self-draining liner. Dimensions: 78cm (30in) length x 80cm (31in) height and 24cm (9½in) planting depth.
SUTTONS
www.suttons.co.uk
TEL: 0333 043 0700
PRODUCT CODE: KC7994
PRICE: £69.99
KG VERDICT
This one is perfect if you don’t want to be bending or kneeling. Made from 100% FSC certified cedar wood and treated with a food-safe water-based preservative, this raised bed planter is relatively easy to put together – just a few screws with pre-drilled holes to make assembly even easier. A very attractive and practical option for backyard growing on a small scale.
