Raise the ROOT

HOW TO FILL A RAISED GARDEN BED ON THE CHEAP!

- Livia Gamble

If you’re considering putting a raised garden bed in your yard, don’t be put off by how much soil you need to fill it. Like most things, there’s a better way. And importantly, it will save you money. We’re talking about hugelkultur.

What is hugelkultur?

The term ‘hugelkultur’ is of German origin and roughly translates to ‘hill culture’ or ‘mound culture’ in English. It is a gardening technique involving raised garden beds filled with organic materials such as logs, branches, leaves, straw and soil. The principle behind hugelkultur is to create a self-sustaining and nutrient-rich growing environment. As the organic materials break down over time, they release nutrients into the soil, improve water retention and create a fertile and long-lasting plant growing space. The best part is you don’t have to buy as many bags of soil to fill your raised garden bed.

Is hugelkultur right for you?