The classic compost raised bed always has an open bottom, which ensures microorganisms and earthworms access to the filling. In addition, excess water, for example after a rainstorm, can drain away unhindered. However, raised beds designed in this way are not always possible or desirable. That's why a practical substructure can be integrated into many types of raised beds. There are a number of options for this.
What can a raised bed base be used for?
A raised bed base can serve as storage space, additional planting options or shelter for animals. The implementation varies depending on the material and bed type, for example by installing shelves, drawers or a refuge for garden animals.
Substructure as shelf or storage space
Especially with table raised beds where the plant tray is comparatively flat, a lot of additional space can be gained with a sensible substructure. This can be used, for example, to store garden tools or as extra storage space. To use the free space under the bed, you can attach shelves and either leave them open or close them with a door. Drawers are also great, but they are a little more difficult to attach. How and with what you attach the substructure to the table bed depends primarily on your technical skills and the material of the bed. Wooden beds in particular are ideal for screwing on additional shelves. This becomes more difficult with beds made of plastic or even fleece, as the substructure itself would have to be able to stand completely free. For example, small shelves (€19.00 on Amazon) or cupboards that can easily be placed under the bed are very suitable.
Substructure as additional planting option
Of course, you can use such a base for more than just storage space. Additional shelves are also ideal for placing plant pots or boxes on and planting on them. Naturally, the plants used for this should grow rather low; herbs such as parsley, chives or basil are ideal. If you want to add additional plants to the base of the raised bed, be sure to choose a light to sunny location. There should also be enough brightness underneath the bed so that the plants feel comfortable there. To be on the safe side, choose plants that are suitable for partially shaded to shady locations.
Stone bed base as shelter for animals
Hedgehogs, lizards, slowworms, many insects and other garden animals find fewer and fewer places to retreat these days. It is therefore important, especially in natural gardens, that you build caves and other shelters in which the animals, which have become rare, feel comfortable. These can be accommodated with little effort in a brick raised bed made of stone, for example by installing perforated hardwood discs or installing a small retreat cave underneath the bed.
Tip
Some of the options mentioned can also be implemented in classic compost raised beds, for example in the form of a hedgehog cave or an entry path for earth bees.