The classic raised bed is rectangular and rather elongated. For some people, this form is far too boring, so they look for more exciting alternatives. And if the garden isn't particularly large, you could also build a raised bed around a tree? You can find out why this is not a good idea and what else you need to pay attention to when implementing this plan in the following article.
Can a raised bed be built around a tree?
Building a raised bed directly around a tree can harm the tree by depriving it of oxygen and growing space. Maintain a distance of at least 30 cm from the trunk and do not completely cover the root area. Use wicker or plastic instead of stone for the border.
Does the raised bed around the tree harm it?
Basically, it is not a good idea to set up a raised bed around a tree. This deprives the tree roots of oxygen by artificially compacting the soil. You also deprive it of its ability to grow and spread. However, under certain conditions, you can still put your plan into action.
Do not build a raised bed directly on the trunk
First of all, the raised bed should not be built directly on or in front of the trunk. By “burying” the trunk, you create a perfect breeding ground for rot fungi - after all, the filling of the raised bed is always moist and the air circulation between the bed and the trunk was cut off by the immediate proximity of the bed. In addition, the tree “breathes” through the trunk, among other things, which is why the supply of oxygen subsequently suffers. If you have a raised bed around the tree, you should maintain a sufficient distance between the bed and the tree trunk - the absolute minimum is 30 centimeters.
Do not completely obstruct the root area
It's also better not to completely block the root area with a raised bed. Here it is important to leave enough space, especially for the fibrous roots - which are the only ones able to absorb water and nutrients. The fibrous roots are always located on the outer edge of the root disk and grow continuously. You can roughly determine where they are based on the treetop. It would be good not to completely seal off the root area - but a narrow raised bed should be fine for the tree in most cases.
What options are there for a raised bed around a tree?
Naturally, round raised beds cannot be built from straight wooden boards. However, you don't have to, because a polygonal bed fits just as well around the tree. A border made of wicker or light plastic is also well suited. However, you should avoid a stone raised bed - this is too heavy for the tree's sensitive root area.
Tip
Instead of building the raised bed around the tree, you can - if it is not old and too established in its location - dig it up and put it in the bed.
