Introduction
Now that you have a clear understanding of the principles behind wicking beds and the necessary materials in hand, it’s time to start building your garden. This article provides step-by-step instructions for constructing a lined wicking bed, from preparing the container to planting your plants.
Building the Soil Bed and Reservoir
In-Ground Wicking Beds
Begin by digging a hole in the ground that matches your wicking bed’s desired dimensions, including the reservoir. The walls should be vertical; avoid undercutting, which will reduce the bed’s structural stability. Place the liner in the hole, carefully folding the corners to eliminate wrinkles. Ensure the liner overlaps the top edges and anchor it securely in place. Landscaping staples or rocks usually are sufficient for smaller beds. Large beds may require an anchor trench.
If the ground tends to get waterlogged or muddy after heavy rains, add a drainage layer of gravel or sand to the bottom of the hole before placing the liner to prevent water from accumulating under the liner.
Above-Ground Wicking Beds
Choose or build a durable container that is appropriate for the size of your plants and the desired height of your wicking bed. Determine whether the reservoir will be integrated or separate.
If you will be using a recycled container, take into consideration what it has been used to contain and avoid any containers exposed to chemicals or oils that could harm your plants or be absorbed into the crops you grow. Before installation, clean and disinfect it thoroughly to ensure there are no harmful microorganisms that may infect your crops.
If you’re working with separate soil beds and reservoirs, drill drainage holes near the bottom of the soil bed container so that excess water can escape and avoid waterlogging. This water can be captured and routed back to the reservoir if desired to minimize water and nutrient waste.
Preparing the Reservoir
Install Pipes for Drainage and Filling
Managing drainage and overflow are fundamental elements of a successful wicking bed. Install an overflow pipe near the top of the reservoir to prevent overfilling and waterlogging the soil. A separate pipe running from near the top of the bed to the bottom of the reservoir should be installed to replenish the reservoir as it empties.
Add the Wicking Material
For best results, fill the reservoir with the chosen wicking material, ensuring it maintains contact with the water as levels drop between refills. The wicking material should fill the reservoir chamber but avoid compressing it to allow sufficient water storage. For separate reservoirs, route pipes filled with wicking material from the reservoir to the soil bed.
Separate the Soil from the Reservoir
For integrated wicking beds, install a permeable, non-woven geotextile over the reservoir and wicking material. The geotextile allows water to pass through but prevents soil from filtering down into the reservoir. This layer isn’t necessary where the reservoir is separate from the soil bed.
Setting Up the Soil Bed
Filling with Soil
Carefully pour the prepared soil mix into the upper part of the wicking bed, ensuring it is evenly distributed over the geotextile layer. Fill the bed to the desired level, leaving sufficient space for the plants to grow.
Watering
After filling the bed with soil, water it thoroughly to settle the soil, eliminate air pockets, and ensure it is evenly moist. Starting with evenly moist soil activates the capillary action so it can begin to draw water from the reservoir to the roots of the plants.
Planting Your Plants
Once the soil is settled and evenly moist, plant your seedlings or seeds according to their growing preferences. Ensure you allow sufficient space to encourage healthy, robust roots and foliage.
Following Up
After planting your wicking bed, carefully monitor it for several days or weeks to ensure the moisture levels remain consistent across the bed. You can use your finger, but a moisture meter is more accurate. As moisture levels fall, top off your reservoir, but if uneven dry patches appear, consult the next articles in this series for tips on how to address challenges.
Conclusion
Constructing a wicking bed can be a rewarding DIY project for both novice and experienced gardeners. By understanding the essential elements of a wicking bed and following these step-by-step instructions, you can create a sustainable and efficient gardening system that reduces water consumption, minimizes nutrient loss, and promotes healthy plant growth.
