Category: Gardening

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Portable Raised Beds

27-Gallon Totes

Dimensions

Out-to-Out
Body Only
Frame Slots		30.8″ x 20.3″ x 14.5″
26″ x 17″ x 15″
27″ x 18″ x 16″

Cut List (Per Unit)

x62″ x 4″ x 1′ 9″
x322″ x 4″ x 2′ 4.25″
x42″ x 4″ 5′ 9″
x22″ x 4″ x 5′ 7.5″
x82″ x 4″ x 3′ 2 11/16″
x4Heavy Duty All-Terrain Casters
x4Steel Plates

Total Cut Requirements:

QuantityCut LengthTotal Linear Inches
621″126″
3228.25″904″
469″276″
267.5″135″
838.6875″309.5″

🔢 Total inches needed: 1,750.5 inches
📏 Each 8′ board = 96″ usable
➡️ Min. 19 boards required (1,750.5 ÷ 96 = 18.23, rounded up)

🪚 Optimized Cutting Layout (Per 2×4 board)

Let’s break this into groupings that minimize waste:

🔹 For the 32 pieces at 28.25”:

  • You can fit 3 cuts of 28.25” per board (3 × 28.25 = 84.75″)
  • That uses 11 boards total (32 ÷ 3 = 10.67, round up)
  • Remaining waste per board ≈ 11″

🔹 For the 8 pieces at 38-11/16” (38.6875”):

  • You can fit 2 cuts per board (2 × 38.6875 = 77.375”)
  • That takes 4 boards
  • Remaining waste per board ≈ 18.625″

🔹 For the longer cuts:

  • (69”) → 1 per board → needs 4 boards
  • (67.5”) → 1 per board → needs 2 boards

🔹 For the short 21” pieces:

  • You can fit 4 per board (4 × 21 = 84”)
  • Needs 2 boards (6 ÷ 4 = 1.5, round up)

📦 Final 2×4 Purchase Summary:

Cut SizeQty NeededBoards UsedNotes
28.25″32113 per board
38.6875″842 per board
69″441 per board
67.5″221 per board
21″624 per board

✅ Total 2x4s to buy: 23

You’ll have some medium-sized offcuts left, especially from the longer cuts and the 38″ batch, which could be useful for bracing or future jigs.

Notes

Customize this design to accommodate more bins, a double-row layout, or tiered stacking.

Each bin can be converted into a passive watering system:

Add a layer of chunky gravel to the bottom.

Lay a perforated drainage pipe (e.g., corrugated or PVC with holes) into the gravel.

Cover gravel with landscape fabric to prevent soil from clogging the reservoir.

Fill remaining space with soil. Plant roots will wick water up from the reservoir.

Drain holes may still be drilled in the side walls if overflow control is needed.

Can line slots with hardware cloth or weed barrier to catch soil spillage.

🛒 Current Prices on 8-ft 2×4s:

Home Depot

Lowe’s

  • Typical #2 kiln-dried spruce–pine–fir (8 ft) is in a similar range (~$3.50–$4.00), but I couldn’t find a precise per-unit online price .

💡 Bottom line: The least expensive 8‑ft 2×4 lumber you’ll generally find is the #2 KD‑HT fir stud at HD for $3.22 (drop to $2.90 in bulk).

🎨 Untreated + Latex Paint: Will It Hold Up?

Yes—with some caveats:

  1. Greenhouse Environment Helps:
    • Since your setup is indoors with controlled heat and humidity, the wood won’t be exposed to rain, prolonged moisture, or soil contact, which greatly extends its lifespan.
  2. Paint Offers Protection:
    • A good latex primer + exterior latex paint will seal the wood, preventing moisture absorption and natural decay for several seasons.
    • Make sure to paint all sides of each board—including ends and cut edges—to ensure full protection.
  3. Recommended Lifespan:
    • With untreated, painted 2×4s indoors, you can expect 5–10 years of good service, likely more if you touch up wear areas over time.
    • Watch for any warping or soft spots where soil or gravel might stay damp.
  4. Optional Extras:
    • If you want even longer durability, seal boards with exterior primer or polyurethane after painting.
    • Pressure-treated lumber is an alternative, but it’s pricier (~$5–$8 per board) and carries extra handling considerations—not really needed inside a greenhouse.

✅ Recommendations:

  • Buy the #2 KD‑HT fir studs at Home Depot ($3.22)—they’re straight, affordable, and easy to paint.
  • Fully paint all surfaces, including the ends, before assembly.
  • Keep an eye on moisture-exposed areas near the gravel and soil—touch up paint if needed over time.
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Moving Boulders

🧮 How to Estimate the Weight of Granite/Pegmatite Boulders

Granite and pegmatite are dense — they both clock in around 165–175 lbs per cubic foot.

Here’s a quick way to ballpark the weight:

👉 Step 1: Estimate the Size

Treat the boulder like a rectangular block (even if it’s rounded). Measure:

  • Length
  • Width
  • Height

(Use inches, then convert to feet: divide each by 12.)

👉 Step 2: Calculate Volume

Volume (in cubic feet) = Length × Width × Height

👉 Step 3: Multiply by Weight

Estimated Weight = Volume × 170 lbs
(You can adjust for density — 165 for granite, up to 180 for some dense pegmatites.)

🛠️ How to Move a Heavy Boulder (Without Wrecking Your Spine)

🪵 1. Rollers + Pry Bars (Egyptian Style)

  • Use sturdy pipes (PVC or metal) under the rock.
  • Pry up one side and slide the first roller under.
  • Push and roll while moving the back roller to the front as you go.
  • Works well on flat ground!

🛷 2. Skid or Sled

  • Place the boulder on a sheet of plywood, heavy-duty tarp, or metal sled.
  • Drag it over grass/dirt.
  • You can use ratchet straps and a vehicle or lawn tractor (slowly and carefully!).

🧱 3. Leverage + Planks

  • Pry the boulder onto a board ramp or a wheelbarrow with a strong frame (if it’s not too massive).
  • Or use a rock dolly (two wheels and cradle, specifically for boulders).

🚜 4. Rent a Tool

For larger rocks (300+ lbs), you can rent:

  • Landscape dollies or boulder carts
  • A come-along winch if you’re working on a slope
  • Or even a mini skid steer or dingo loader for really big boys — local rental centers usually carry these for ~half-day rates.

🧠 Pro Tips:

  • Use shims or bricks to slowly raise one side of the boulder at a time.
  • Gloves, steel-toe boots, and eye protection are your friends.
  • Always push from low on the rock — never lift with your back.
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Raised Garden Bed Samples

Raised beds can be built on hillsides to improve drainage, extend the growing season, and make gardening easier. 

Benefits 

  • Improved drainage: Raised beds on hillsides can improve drainage.
  • Extended growing season: Raised beds on hillsides can extend the growing season.
  • Even water and nutrient distribution: Raised beds on hillsides can help ensure even water and nutrient distribution.
  • Reduced erosion: Raised beds on hillsides can reduce erosion.
  • Less weed growth: Raised beds on hillsides can reduce weed growth.
  • More control over soil quality: Raised beds on hillsides can give you more control over soil quality.
  • Easier gardening: Raised beds on hillsides can make gardening easier.

Construction 

  1. Dig out footing to approximate level.
  2. Add a thin layer of gravel to the footing for better drainage.
  3. Assemble the bottom layer.
  4. Cut and attach upper course boards.
  5. Attach end boards to the frame.
  6. Fill the bed with soil.
  7. Cut and attach seat rail boards.

Tips

  • For very steep slopes, you may need to build beds on top of each other. 
  • You can use stakes to help ensure the bed is stable. 
  • You can use braces to secure the corners and boards. 
  • You can use a plastic damp proof membrane to line the bed. 

You can also watch this video to learn how to build a raised garden bed on a slope:


Fun concepts to consider:

(Corten Steel Fence)

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Resources & Guides – Hydroponic Grow Towers

Articles:

  1. “Building a Vertical Hydroponic Tower” by Oklahoma State University Extension:
  2. “Home Made Vertical Hydroponic System” on Instructables:
    • A step-by-step tutorial with images, detailing the creation of a vertical hydroponic system, including materials needed and assembly instructions. Instructables
  3. “Vertical Hydroponics DIY – Grow without Soil” by Grow Without Soil:
    • This article explores various DIY vertical hydroponic systems, offering insights into design options and construction tips. Grow Without Soil

Videos:

  1. “Build Your Own Affordable Hydroponic Grow Tower (Under $50)”:
    • A practical guide demonstrating how to construct a cost-effective vertical hydroponic tower using PVC pipes and other common materials.
  1. “DIY: How to Make a Vertical Hydroponic Tower”:
    • This video provides a clear, step-by-step process for building a vertical hydroponic tower, suitable for beginners and hobbyists.
  1. “Cheap & Easy Vertical Tower Garden with No Power, DIY Hydroponics”:
    • Learn how to create a simple vertical hydroponic system that operates without electricity, ideal for sustainable gardening.

These resources should provide you with a solid foundation to successfully build and maintain your vertical hydroponic gardening tower. Happy gardening! 🌿

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Basic Instructions on Building a Hydroponic Grow Tower

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Plan Your Design:

  • Decide on the size of your tower based on the space available in your greenhouse.
  • Determine what plants you want to grow (e.g., herbs, leafy greens, or fruiting plants) to choose the appropriate setup.

2. Gather Supplies:

  • See the comprehensive list below for items needed.

3. Build the Tower Structure:

  1. Base Preparation:
    • Use a sturdy container (like a 5-gallon bucket) as the base for the water reservoir.
    • Drill a hole near the bottom for the submersible pump’s tubing to pass through.
  2. Vertical Tubing:
    • Use a PVC pipe or similar material for the vertical column.
    • Cut evenly spaced holes (2-3 inches in diameter) where plants will sit, staggering the positions for optimal light and space.
  3. Plant Holders:
    • Fit net pots into the holes. Secure them to ensure stability.

4. Set Up the Water Circulation System:

  1. Install the submersible pump in the reservoir and connect tubing that will carry nutrient solution up the tower.
  2. Create a drip system at the top to distribute water down the column. Drill small holes in the tubing to allow controlled water flow.

5. Add Growing Medium and Plants:

  • Place a growing medium (e.g., clay pebbles, coco coir) in each net pot.
  • Insert seedlings into the growing medium.

6. Mix and Add Nutrient Solution:

  1. Mix hydroponic nutrients in the water reservoir following the product instructions.
  2. Test and adjust the pH to ensure it stays between 5.5 and 6.5.

7. Assemble and Test:

  • Attach the vertical tube to the base and secure it for stability.
  • Turn on the pump to ensure the water flows smoothly through the system.

8. Maintain Your Tower:

  • Monitor water and nutrient levels weekly.
  • Check the pH regularly and adjust as needed.
  • Clean the system periodically to prevent algae or clogging.

Comprehensive Supplies and Tools List:

Structure:

  • PVC pipe (3–4 inches in diameter) or similar material
  • 5-gallon bucket or other sturdy reservoir
  • Net pots (2–3 inches diameter, based on plant size)
  • PVC end cap and fittings (if applicable)

Water Circulation:

  • Submersible water pump
  • Flexible tubing (to connect the pump and drip system)
  • Drip manifold or small tubing for water distribution

Growing Medium:

  • Hydroton clay pebbles, coco coir, or Rockwool cubes

Nutrients and Testing:

  • Hydroponic nutrient solution
  • pH testing kit or digital pH meter
  • pH adjusters (pH Up and pH Down solutions)

Tools:

  • Power drill with hole saw attachments
  • PVC cutter or saw
  • Measuring tape
  • Waterproof adhesive or sealant

Optional:

  • Grow lights (if natural light in the greenhouse is insufficient)
  • Timer for the pump
  • Thermometer and hygrometer (to monitor greenhouse conditions)
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Vertical Hydroponic Tower Builds

The following content and build designs are by Chris Loh.

PVC Cutting Template is now available on Chris’s website https://clohofficial.com/ in the downloads section.

List of materials:

Charlotte Pipe PVC Pipe 4-in 10-ft
Charlotte Pipe 1/2-in x 10-ft
5-Gallon Plastic General Bucket
4.25-in Drain Cover
4 In. PVC Drain Cap
4-in x 4-in Dia Schedule 40 Coupling
1/2-in x 1/2-in dia Adapter Adapter PVC Fitting
4-in x 4-in Dia Schedule 40 Adapter
4-in x 4-in Dia Schedule 40 Adapter
Yokgrass 800GPH Submersible Pump(3000L/H)
Garden 50 Pack Lightweight Economy Net Pot Cups
Pure Coconut Coir Netted Pellets 42mm (100 pack)

Links to parts and templates can be found at https://clohofficial.com

IMPROVEMENTS & MULTI-TOWER UNIT

This is a follow-up video of his previous DIY hydroponics tower build.

PVC Cutting Template is now available on Chris’s website https://clohofficial.com/ in the downloads sections.

Parts List and Links:
1 – SDTC Tech 1/2″ 5 Way PVC Fitting Pipe Elbow Connector (4-pack) – $10.99 – https://amzn.to/3iggqGp
1 – GROWNEER 550GPH Submersible Pump 30W Ultra Quiet Fountain Water Pump – $17.77 – https://amzn.to/3AQ2LvY
1 – xGarden – Lightweight Economy Net Pots Cups (50 pack) – $10.95 – https://amzn.to/3ie5Yz6
1 – Pure Coconut Coir Netted Pellets 42mm (100 pack) – $33.09 – https://amzn.to/3EJOP87
1 – AeroGarden Liquid Nutrients (1 Liter) – $26.19 – https://amzn.to/3VtzEXb
3-5 (Depending on Build Height) Charlotte Pipe PVC Pipe 4-in 10-ft – $21.76/ea – https://low.es/2QbcLHs
1 – Charlotte Pipe 1/2-in x 10-ft – $5.82 – https://low.es/3OudSiv
4 – 4.25-in Drain Cover – $7.48/ea – https://low.es/3OhuLx0
5 – 4 In. PVC Drain Cap – $3.28/ea – https://low.es/2XZsorZ
4 – 1/2-in x 1/2-in dia Adapter Adapter PVC Fitting $0.72/ea – https://low.es/3OpYZxL
4 – 4-in Dia 90-Degree PVC Drain Elbow – $3.98/ea – https://low.es/3zN8UcC
1 – 4-in Dia 45-Degree PVC Wye – $7.98 – https://low.es/3xGZaOD
3 – 4″ PVC Tee, White – $6.48/ea – https://low.es/39Dedkc
4 – 1/2-in x 1/2-in dia 90-Degree Slip Elbow PVC Fitting – $0.67/ea – https://low.es/3HzUyye
1 – 2-in dia x 2-ft 280 Psi Schedule 40 White PVC Pipe – $13.15 – https://low.es/3OouDf9
1 – Fusion One 10-fl oz Clear PVC Cement and Primer – $14.28 – https://low.es/3O597fC
1 – Charlotte Pipe 4-in dia x Male Schedule 40 Plug – $5.84 – https://low.es/3xEwNAH
1 – Charlotte Pipe 4-in dia x Female Hub Schedule 40 Adapter – $9.86 – https://low.es/3tNfvA8

THIRD GENERATION