Don't Buy 20 Bags of Soil: The "Lasagna Method" to Fill Your Raised Bed for Cheap

So, you just bought your beautiful, 17-inch tall metal raised garden bed. It’s set up in your backyard, looking sleek and ready to go.

But then, you did the math. To fill this entire box with premium potting soil from the garden center, it might cost more than the bed itself!

Stop! Put your wallet away. You do not need to fill the whole thing with expensive soil.

In fact, nature has a better way. Based on the diagram you see here, we recommend the "Layering Method" (also known as Hugelkultur in a box). It saves you money, improves drainage, and creates nutrient-rich soil over time.

Here is your step-by-step guide to filling your planter on a budget, from the bottom up.

Layer 1: The Base (Weed Barrier)

What to use: Cardboard or Landscape Fabric Start by lining the very bottom of your metal bed.

• Why? This layer creates a barrier that stops grass and weeds from growing up into your new garden. If using cardboard (free from delivery boxes!), remove any tape first. It will slowly break down and invite earthworms.

Layer 2: The Bulk Filler (Volume)

What to use: Branches, Logs, or Twigs This is the secret to saving money. Fill the bottom 30-40% of your bed with old branches or wood scraps.

• Why? Wood takes up a lot of space (so you buy less soil) and acts like a sponge, holding moisture deep down for plant roots during dry summer days.

Layer 3: The Nutrient "Engine"

What to use: Kitchen Waste and Compost On top of the branches, toss in your "green" and "brown" waste. This can include vegetable scraps, eggshells, coffee grounds (Kitchen Waste), or garden compost.

• Why? As these materials decompose, they turn into a slow-release fertilizer, feeding your plants from below.

Layer 4: The Growing Zone

What to use: Organic Soil Now, add the good stuff. You only need about 6-8 inches of high-quality organic soil on top.

• Why? Most vegetables (like lettuce, peppers, and beans) have shallow roots that mostly live in this top layer. This is the only layer you actually need to spend money on!

Layer 5: The Top Cover (Protection)

What to use: Hay or Straw Finally, after planting your seeds or seedlings, cover the bare soil around them with straw.

• Why? This acts as "mulch." It keeps the soil cool in the hot sun, prevents water from evaporating, and stops weeds from sprouting.