Metal raised beds for vegetables
A raised bed warms up earlier in spring, drains better on heavy clay and saves your back. Metal beds last longer than untreated timber and go together with a few bolts. A depth of 30 cm suits salad and herbs. For carrots, parsnips and potatoes, go for 45 cm or more.
Harbour Housewares raised bed 120 x 60 x 45 cm, 2 pack
Deep metal beds with rounded corners
£62 at Amazon · 4.7 stars (193)
Harbour Housewares raised bed 180 x 90 cm
Larger bottomless bed at a low price
£31 at Amazon · 4.7 stars (255)
INNO STAGE galvanised raised bed 120 x 60 x 30 cm, 4 pack
Four shallow beds for salad and herbs
£80 at Amazon · 4.6 stars (276)
Galvanised raised bed 8 x 4 x 1 ft
One big bed in a classic allotment size
£60 at Amazon · 4.4 stars (195)
Prices and ratings from Amazon.co.uk when we checked. Affiliate links. We have not tested these ourselves.
What to look for
- Keep beds no wider than about 1.2 m, so you reach the middle from both sides without stepping on the soil.
- Fill the bottom of a deep bed with branches and coarse material, then topsoil and compost on top. You need far less bought compost.
- Choose a bottomless bed on soil, so worms and roots can move through.
- Leave paths wide enough for a wheelbarrow between beds.