Build a U Shaped Raised Garden Bed with Fence for a Beautiful and Productive Garden

Backyard gardening is becoming increasingly popular, allowing people to grow their own healthy fruits, vegetables, and herbs One of the best ways to create a manageable garden space is with a raised garden bed A raised bed provides better drainage, allows for customized soil, reduces weed and pest pressure, and is easier on your back thanks to the elevated design. Opting for a U shaped raised bed can maximize planting space while providing an aesthetic shape. Adding a protective fence creates a safe haven for your plants to thrive in.

What is a U Shaped Raised Garden Bed?

A U shaped raised garden bed is exactly what it sounds like – a garden bed with boards framing a U shape and open in the center to allow planting access. The “U” shape can fit nicely along fences or walls and creates a planting area with two sides accessible. This allows you to reach plants from both sides easily without compacting the soil by walking on it.

Raised beds themselves are planting areas contained by boards, bricks, rocks, or other framing material. The frame raises the soil level above ground, improving drainage and root growth. Since U shaped raised beds attach at the ends, they create ample length for planting along both sides of the “U”. This can maximize planting space, especially in narrower garden locations.

Benefits of a U Shaped Raised Garden Bed

There are many advantages to using a U shaped raised bed in your garden

• Increased planting space – The unique shape increases plantable area compared to a square or rectangular bed. More space allows you to grow more fruits, veggies, and herbs.

• Improved ergonomics – With access from both sides you won’t have to reach across a wide bed or step into it. This reduces back strain.

• Better drainage – Elevated beds prevent waterlogging and allow for added drainage materials like gravel or sand.

• Customized soil – You can fill the frame with ideal potting mix instead of using native soil.

• Easy access – The open center makes tending plants simple without sacrificing planting area.

• Defined edges – The boards provide a clear border between growing space and lawn or footpaths.

• Attractive look – A U shaped design can add geometric interest to a garden’s layout and edges.

Adding a Fence to a U Shaped Raised Garden Bed

Protecting your garden from pests is crucial for a successful harvest. Deer, rabbits, groundhogs, and other wildlife can decimate vegetable plants and fruiting crops. Installing fencing around a raised bed creates a physical barrier to keep critters out.

For U shaped raised garden beds, fencing across the open center completes the enclosure. A variety of fencing options exist:

• Chicken wire – Galvanized steel hexagonal mesh allows airflow while keeping animals out. It comes in various heights.

• Hardware cloth – A woven wire mesh with smaller openings than chicken wire. Its very durable against gnawing animals.

• Deer netting – Strong polyethylene plastic netting designed specifically to deter deer. Usually 7-10 feet tall.

• Welded wire – Rigid, rectangular steel wire openings. The grid pattern provides stability.

• Decorative fencing – Wrought iron, lattice panels, or picket fencing add ornamental style. Not as protective as metal wire.

Building a U Shaped Raised Garden Bed with Fence

Now that you know the benefits of adding protective fencing to a U shaped raised bed, let’s go over how to construct one:

Planning the Design

• Select location – Choose a sunny, flat spot with access to water. Measure the space to determine size.

• Pick dimensions – Typical widths are 3-4 feet deep and 8-12 feet long on each side. Size based on space and desired planting capacity.

• Choose materials – Rot-resistant lumber like cedar or Redwood. At least 2 inches thick to resist warping.

• Select fencing – Match fence height to pests, at least 3-4 feet. Include a gate panel for entry access.

Assemble the Frame

• Cut boards to length – Cut side boards equal lengths according to planned dimensions. Miter cut corner boards at 45 degrees.

• Fasten corners – Use exterior screws or galvanized nails to attach corner boards and form the “U” shape. Predrill holes to prevent splitting.

• Level frame – Ensure the bed sits level on the ground. Use gravel, bricks, or pavers to provide stability if needed.

Add the Fence

• Measure opening – Measure across the open side of the “U” for fencing width. Add several inches for gate overhang.

• Cut fencing – For wire fencing, cut to the opening width and desired height using wire snips. For other materials, saw or snip to size.

• Install fence – Use fencing staples, sturdy zip ties, or screws to fasten the fencing across the center opening.

• Attach gate – A section of fencing cut slightly wider creates a gate. Use hinges and latches to allow entry access.

Fill and Plant

• Add gravel layer – Line bottom with gravel, old bricks, or wood chips for drainage.

• Fill with soil – Use a quality potting mix suitable for vegetables and herbs. Mix in compost for added nutrients.

• Plant choices – Consider sunlight levels. Plant tall crops like tomatoes near the center, low greens along the edges.

• Mulch top – Cover soil with shredded bark, leaves, straw, or other mulch to retain moisture and reduce weeds.

Purchasing a Prefabricated U Shaped Raised Garden Bed with Fence

For those wanting to skip the building process, there are pre-made raised garden beds available with a protective fence included:

• Greenes Fence (frequently mentioned) offers cedar U shaped raised beds in a choice of sizes. Add metal CritterGuard fencing.

• Frame It All (frequently mentioned) has walk-in style U shaped beds with mesh deer fencing included in kits. Polyethylene plastic construction.

• Gardener’s Supply Company sells red cedar U shaped raised beds. Add galvanized wire Hexanet fencing sized to fit.

• Costco carries Skyline steel U shaped raised garden beds during spring and summer. Fencing not included.

Look for rot-resistant natural wood or weather-resistant materials. Check fence height is sufficient and entry gates are included. Prefabricated raised beds allow you to start growing immediately without construction.

Tips for Growing in a U Shaped Raised Garden Bed

Once your raised bed is built and filled, follow these tips for growing success:

• Enrich the soil with organic material like compost each season. Nutrients are depleted over time.

• Use drip irrigation inside the bed to conserve water. Mulch heavily around plants to retain soil moisture.

• Rotate crop locations annually to prevent disease buildup and improve nutrients. Change plant families each year.

• Trellis or cage tall crops like tomatoes, beans, cucumbers, and peas. This saves space and contains growth.

• Keep pathways mulched to prevent weeds. Pull any weeds emerging inside the bed promptly.

• Apply organic fertilizers early in the growing season. Compost tea, manure, and fish emulsions feed plants naturally.

• Check for pest damage frequently. Row covers, diatomaceous earth, neem oil, and insecticidal soap can control infestations without chemicals.

Get Growing with a U Shaped Raised Garden Bed

Creating a U shaped raised bed opens up ample planting space for your garden that is easy to access and maintain. The unique shape fits well along fences and house walls. Adding protective fencing safely keeps critters from destroying fruits, vegetables, and tender greens. With a quality potting mix filling the frame, plants have the rich soil, drainage, and root space needed to thrive. A U shaped design can take your gardening to the next level for beauty and productivity.