Colin and Alison were looking to enhance their existing garden by adding a space to grow vegetables. A kitchen garden would be the perfect solution and provide a space to grow produce that they could use themselves.
Colin and Alison’s U-shaped raised planter
After considering different options, Colin and Alison decided to choose WoodBlocX to build a raised kitchen garden. WoodBlocX was chosen due to its aesthetic appeal, durability and ability to create a bespoke solution. Colin and Alison were keen to build the raised bed themselves without the need for expertise and power tools. A WoodBlocX kitchen garden makes it easy to grow fresh herbs and vegetables in a durable raised bed that improves soil quality, drainage and growing conditions. Built at a comfortable working height, it reduces bending and strain, while offering a flexible, low-maintenance and a long-lasting solution that can be tailored to fit any space.
Planning the Garden
When planning their new kitchen garden, Colin and Alison sent measurements to us using our Free Design Service. Our design team got to work and created a large bespoke U-shaped raised bed, perfect for growing a selection of vegetables. The centre aspect of the raised bed allows for access to both sides of the planter to plant bulbs and harvest crops.
Preparation and building
To start, Colin and Alison mapped out where they would like the kitchen garden to be situated. Once they were happy with the position, they meticulously removed the turf from the garden to create the perfect base of the WoodBlocX to sit on. It is very important to ensure that the ground is completely level before beginning the build, this can be achieved by using products such as sand to level the ground.
Once the ground was level, the first layer of WoodBlocX was built. As the planter was being built on soft ground, Colin and Alison used ground spikes to secure the planter in place. WoodBlocX can be built on any surface, we offer angle brackets to secure our kits to hard ground types such as concrete, paving and patios.
Colin and Alison, with the help of their grandson, followed the step-by-step instructions until all layers were complete. WoodBlocX is a great activity to involve the whole family. Before adding the final capping layer, they secured a raised bed liner in place. The liner gives extra protection and provides a barrier between the timber and soil, helping to ensure the lifespan of the raised bed. Once the final capping layer was added, Colin and Alison filled the bed with soil and began planting an array of vegetables.
Finished Garden
Colin and Alison now have a large and ample space to begin their vegetable growing journey. Adding the finishing touches, the kitchen garden has been expertly finished with a border of pebbles and stones to complete the area. Depending on what vegetables are being grown, Colin and Alison opted for the option to include crop protector poles which will come in handy should they need to use them.
The U-shaped planter is the perfect solution and offers plenty space to grow various types of vegetables. Colin and Alison have chosen to grow onions, courgettes, cauliflower and sugar snap peas however the list of possibilities is endless and they look forward to growing many more over the years to come. Take a look at other WoodBlocX kitchen and vegetable gardens for inspiration!
Colin and Alison's thoughts on their project
"Having chosen WoodBlocX for our garden project and through our contact with the Company they really impressed us with their professionalism, design skills and quality of their products. From our ideas the design team created the perfect planter for our needs. The planter not only looks great in the garden, it's allowed us to enjoy our garden more. Thank you again WoodBlocX and the team, from two very happy hobby gardeners. It's 5 stars from us!"
Create a kitchen garden with a U-shaped raised bed
The U-shaped planter is the perfect solution when designing a kitchen garden. Its design provides easy access from all sides when planting and harvesting vegetables, while the modular WoodBlocX system ensures quick, tool-free assembly. Strong, sustainable and built to last, it’s ideal for maximising growing space in any garden.


