How do I build a center garden that is level on sloping ground

Debra Wooten
by Debra Wooten
  6 answers
  • Kathy Gunter Law Kathy Gunter Law on Oct 26, 2018

    Raised beds would work.

  • Kathy beat me to It! Raised beds might be the easiest, but gardening on a slope can be fun too. Or if a steep slope, you can terrace it.

  • Mogie Mogie on Oct 26, 2018

    If it is a gentle slope raised garden beds. Here is a site that walks you thru it step by step.

    http://www.livingandlearningwithluisa.com/2013/05/11/building-garden-beds-on-a-slope/


    Terraces can create several mini-gardens in your backyard. On steep slopes, terracing can make planting a garden possible. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/projects/building-terrace-gardens.htm

  • Mindshift Mindshift on Oct 26, 2018

    You will need a carpenter's tape measure, a 4' level, a straight length of 2x4, and a shovel or spade. A wheelbarrow would be very helpful for moving the gravel and blocks.

    Start by deciding how large you want the garden bed to be and whether the bed will be round or square. Mark out the area on top of the grass or soil using spray paint. If you are doing a square bed simply measure the length and width of the sides and add them together. (5 + 8 + 5 + 8 = 26) This is the minimum linear feet of retaining wall block you need. If you want a circular bed measure across the middle of the area and multiply this number by 3.14. (5 x 3.14 = 15.7 or 15' 8 1/2") I'm using 5 ft as the maximum width of both types of bed because anything wider is difficult to access without stepping in the bed. However, you can make your beds wider if you provide access paths.

    Next, set one side of the 2x4 on the top edge of the bed area. Set the level on top of the 2x4. Have another person hold the board at the lower edge of the garden area until you determine the board is level. Then measure from the bottom of the 2x4 to the ground level at the low side.

    Once you have this number you can find how many tiers of block you need. Divide that height by the height of the blocks you will be using. If the height of the bed is less than 10" you will need only 3 courses of 4" tall block. If the height is less than 6" you will need only 2 courses of block. This is because the first course of blocks should be set 2" below ground level on sand or gravel.

    My blocks measure 11 1/2 inches wide, so for a round bed figure 16 blocks each for the first and second courses. The angle on the side of the blocks allows some play in how the blocks are stacked, and you shouldn't have any difficulty until after the third level. Use the level set on the 2x4 to make sure your first course of block is level from side to side in every direction.



  • Cor32419347 Cor32419347 on Nov 01, 2018

    You will need a large level. Work through your plot of dirt. Add whatever it needs to the soil. You can get your soil checked at your local county extension office or a nursery. If it needs nutrients get what you need to add to the soil. Measure out your garden and add or subtract dirt where needed. Plant according to your Almanac. This will ensure success. Everybody should buy a Farmers Almanac. It will be the best money you ever spend. I live in the country and we swear by it. You will never lose a plant ever. Good luck!