Cinder Block Raised Bed

Cinder Block Raised Beds are a great option, not only to grow vegetables, but also make for the perfect flower bed. Cinder blocks are a great inexpensive option for building a raised bed that will last outside in the elements.

Why Cinder Blocks?

My husband and I built a couple of raised beds out of wood. While I love them, after just one year they are already looking worn. Mind you, I also painted and sealed these with multiple coats of primer and water seal. At the time we built them we had leftover wood, and the wood had been purchased before the price of lumber had gotten so high. I am all for using what you have so…we used what we had.

This year we knew we wanted to add more raised beds to our garden area. We also were on a mission. We not only wanted to find something that would look nice, but also something we could have for years. And most importantly, something that will not require a lot of maintenance.

So as one does when they are on a mission, we went to Lowe’s and wandered the aisles. We were looking for some sort of water proof material that did not cost an arm and a leg. After searching high and low we come to the realization that Cinder Blocks are really the best option for us cost wise.

Garden Bed Workout

I am all for a budget friendly DIY, but I didn’t love the look of the holes in the cinder blocks. Then I realized they had flat blocks the same dimensions as the cinder blocks. So I could use those to cover the holes, and give the raised bed a more finished look. I was sold.

After some fast math, we loaded down our truck, probably a little too full, and brought our cinder blocks home. Thankfully Lowe’s loaded them in the truck for us because once we got home, that was when the realization hit that I was going to have to help unload over 1,000 pounds of blocks. My least favorite part of this DIY project for sure. But I definitely got in a good workout.

Once they were unloaded, we decided where we wanted to build the bed. Then we used our tiller to break up the ground so we could get it level. Well as level as possible. I am more of a “get it done” kind of gal not a “it has to be perfect” kind of gal.

Cinder Block Tetris

After we had our spot leveled I did a rough layout of what shape I wanted, and actually decided to go with a shorter, but longer raised bed. The best thing about the cinder blocks is you can rearrange them so easily. You could also expand them over the years, which is what I plan to do.

So once we had our cinder block bed laid, and as level as possible, we used the thinner blocks to cap the top of the bed, and finish it off. This step really give the beds a more put together look.

We did not use any kind of mortar to keep the blocks in place. I like the idea of the raised beds not being permanent. I change my mind, and love to move things around. If I want to reuse, or redesign this bed in the future I totally could. This is why this would be the perfect renter friendly option. The cinder blocks would also make for the perfect fire pit, just brainstorming so ideas over here. 🙂

I hope you enjoyed this easy DIY Cinder Block Raised Garden Bed. If you give this DIY a try, be sure to tag me on Instagram. And follow along with The Four Acre Farm blog for more Easy Recipes, Gardening Tips, & Budget Friendly DIY.