Build a No-Dig Bed
Gardening doesn’t have to be backbreaking or overly complicated. In fact, you can grow delicious vegetables and plants just about anywhere—on window sills, balconies, or in any outdoor space you have available. One of the simplest ways to start growing is by building a No-Dig Bed.
No-dig gardening has been gaining popularity as a more sustainable and soil-friendly approach to growing. Traditionally, soil was tilled and turned over each year to prepare for planting, but recent studies have shown this method can actually damage soil health. By leaving the soil undisturbed, you allow its natural structure and ecosystem to thrive, creating healthier soil and, ultimately, healthier crops.
This method isn’t just great for the planet—it’s also much easier on your back! With a few materials and a little time, you’ll have a productive growing space that requires minimal effort to maintain.
How long will it take?
How hard is it?
How many people can do it together?
Under 2 hours
Moderate
Participants: Solo or a fun group project
Anytime
a wildish story
What do you need?
Plain brown cardboard
A heat-treated pallet (look for the "HT" logo)
Peat-free compost Hammer and nails Water
How to do it.
Prepare the Base Lay down a layer of plain cardboard on the ground where you want your No-Dig Bed.
The cardboard will suppress weeds and act as a foundation. Soak the Cardboard Saturate the cardboard with water until it’s soaked through but not falling apart.
Position the Pallet Place the pallet on top of the wet cardboard.
Make sure the cardboard is roughly the same size as the pallet.
Modify the Pallet Carefully remove the second, fourth, and sixth slats from the pallet using a hammer.
Reattach these slats to the sides of the pallet to create a semi-sealed frame for your bed.
Fill with Compost Fill the pallet with peat-free compost, making sure to push the compost into the corners and sides of the pallet.
This creates six distinct pockets, perfect for planting. Start Growing!
Plant seeds such as radishes, strawberries, or salad leaves in the compost pockets. These crops grow well in this type of bed and are perfect for small spaces.