Tall Raised Garden Beds with Hügelkultur Fill

These sturdy tall raised beds (42"L x 24"W x 28"H) combine rustic charm with practical gardening excellence. Constructed from durable treated or cedar lumber with recycled steel roofing panels, they offer ample depth for productive growing whilst adding architectural interest to your garden space.

The impressive 28-inch height makes these beds ideal candidates for the Hügelkultur filling method—a traditional permaculture technique that transforms the beds into self-sustaining growing systems. Think of Hügelkultur as building a slow-release sponge cake for your plants: you layer rotting wood and organic matter that gradually breaks down over years, retaining moisture and releasing nutrients.

Filling with Hügelkultur:

The generous depth allows you to create distinct layers, much like the diagram shows:

• Bottom layer: Large logs and branches (the foundation)

• Middle layers: Smaller wood pieces, twigs, leaves, and compost

• Top layer: Quality garden soil for immediate planting

As the wood decomposes, it creates air pockets for root growth, absorbs and stores water like a reservoir, and generates gentle warmth. Over time, you'll water less frequently whilst your plants thrive in the nutrient-rich environment. The beds essentially become self-fertilising and increasingly water-efficient—perfect for sustainable gardening at Shady Elm Farm.

The corrugated steel panels provide structural support for the heavy organic fill whilst the raised height means less bending for your back during planting and harvesting.