Starting a raised garden bed is one of the most rewarding DIY landscaping projects you can do, especially if you enjoy fresh herbs, vegetables, or flowers right in your backyard. Whether you’re working with limited space, poor soil conditions, or just want a cleaner, more organized garden, raised beds are the answer.
At Kirk Allen Landscape Supply, we’ve seen countless homeowners across New Jersey transform their yards with simple, effective garden beds using our premium topsoil and mulch. If you’ve been thinking about doing the same, here’s your complete beginner’s guide—from choosing materials to filling it right.
Why Choose a Raised Garden Bed?
Before diving into the step-by-step process, let’s talk about why this method of gardening is so popular in places like Raritan Township, Flemington, and other New Jersey towns:
- Better Drainage: Raised beds improve drainage naturally, reducing the chance of soggy roots.
- Weed Control: By using quality fill like screened topsoil and mulch, you reduce weed intrusion.
- Less Soil Compaction: You’re not walking on the soil, which means healthier root systems.
- Earlier Planting: Raised soil warms up faster in the spring, giving you a head start on the season.
- Back-Friendly: Depending on height, raised beds are easier on your knees and back.
Step 1: Choose Your Location
Pick a flat, sunny area that gets at least 6–8 hours of sunlight daily. Avoid places where water tends to pool after it rains. Also, consider proximity to a hose or water source—it’s easier than dragging watering cans across your yard every day.
Step 2: Plan the Size of Your Bed
A good starter size is 4 feet wide by 8 feet long and 12 to 24 inches high. Four feet is ideal because you can easily reach the center from either side without stepping in the bed.
If you’re growing deep-rooted vegetables like carrots or tomatoes, aim for at least 18 inches deep. If you’re planting herbs or shallow-rooted plants, 12 inches may be fine.
Step 3: Gather Your Materials
Here’s a simple shopping list to build your raised garden bed:
Wood or stone for walls:
- Pressure-treated wood (cedar or redwood preferred for rot resistance)
- Landscape stone or blocks (for a more permanent look)
Fill materials:
- Screened Topsoil – Forms the bulk of your bed; must be nutrient-rich and free of debris.
- Compost or organic matter – Improves fertility.
- Mulch – Retains moisture and prevents weeds once plants are in.
🛒 Pro Tip: You can get premium screened topsoil and mulch in bulk or delivered straight to your home from Kirk Allen Landscape Supply (Call: 973-347-3117).
Step 4: Build the Frame
If using wood:
- Cut your lumber to the desired lengths.
- Use galvanized or stainless steel screws to secure corners.
- Consider corner brackets for added strength.
If using stone:
- Lay out your shape using landscape paint.
- Place your first row of blocks level.
- Stack rows in a staggered pattern for durability.
Optional Tip: Line the bottom of the bed with landscape fabric to keep weeds and grass from growing up through your soil.
Step 5: Fill with Topsoil and Compost
The ideal mix is roughly 60% screened topsoil, 30% compost, and 10% sand (optional for drainage). You want loose, well-draining soil that holds moisture but doesn’t stay soggy.
You can calculate how much soil you’ll need using the formula:
Length x Width x Height = Cubic Feet
Divide by 27 for cubic yards (what bulk suppliers like Kirk Allen use).
Example: A 4x8x1.5 ft raised bed = 48 cubic feet = 1.78 cubic yards of fill.
📦 Order online or call Kirk Allen Supply for delivery options throughout Hunterdon, Morris, and Somerset counties.
Step 6: Add Mulch After Planting
Once your plants or seeds are in the ground, add a 1–2 inch layer of mulch. Why?
- Reduces evaporation (meaning less watering)
- Keeps soil temperature steady
- Helps block out weeds
- Breaks down over time, adding organic matter
At Kirk Allen, we carry both natural hardwood mulch and dyed options (brown, black, red) for aesthetic and practical appeal.
Step 7: Maintain the Bed
Water consistently—most raised beds need more frequent watering than in-ground beds. Inspect weekly for weeds, pests, or signs of nutrient deficiencies.
In the fall, pull spent plants and add a fresh layer of compost or mulch to prep for next season.
Bonus Tip: Start Small, Then Expand
Many homeowners begin with one raised bed and quickly realize the benefits. The beauty is you can always add more—side by side, in different parts of your yard, or even on a patio.
Why Buy Materials from Kirk Allen Landscape Supply?
📍 Locally Owned & Operated – Serving New Jersey since 1991
🚚 Bulk Delivery Available – Fast, reliable service in your area
🌱 Premium Soil & Mulch – Screened, clean, and garden-ready
📞 Customer Service that Cares – Real people ready to help at 973-347-3117
We don’t just sell landscape materials—we help homeowners like you succeed with outdoor projects.
Final Thoughts
Building a raised garden bed with topsoil and mulch doesn’t require fancy tools or a professional landscaper. With a bit of planning and the right supplies, you can create a productive, beautiful space to grow food or flowers right in your backyard.
And if you’re looking for trusted delivery of premium garden materials across Raritan Township, Flemington, and surrounding New Jersey towns, reach out to Kirk Allen Landscape Supply today. We’ve got everything you need—on time, in bulk, and at a price that makes sense.
Order online or call us now at 973-347-3117 to schedule your delivery!
