The classic raised bed is rectangular and rather elongated. This form is far too boring for some people, so they look for more exciting alternatives. And if the garden is not particularly large, could you also build a raised bed around a tree? In the following article you will find out why this is not a good idea and what you still have to pay attention to when implementing this plan.
A raised bed around a tree robs the roots of oxygen
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 takes oxygen away from the tree roots by artificially compacting the soil. You are also depriving it of its ability to grow and spread. However, under certain conditions, you can still put your plan into action.
Do not set up 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 damp and the air circulation between the bed and the trunk was cut off by the immediate spatial proximity of the bed. In addition, the tree “breathes” via the trunk, among other things, which is why the supply of oxygen then suffers. With a raised bed around the tree, you should therefore keep a sufficient distance between the bed and the tree trunk - the absolute minimum is 30 centimeters.
Do not completely obstruct the root area
It is also better not to completely obstruct the root area with a raised bed. It is important to leave enough space for the fibrous roots, which are the only ones capable of absorbing water and nutrients. The fibrous roots are always on the outer edge of the root disk and grow incessantly. You can roughly tell where they are by looking at the treetops. It would be good not to completely seal the root area - but a narrow raised bed should be fine for the tree in most cases.
What are the options 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 nestles just as well around the tree. A border made of wicker or light plastic are also well suited. On the other hand, you should avoid a stone raised bed - this is too heavy for the sensitive root area of the tree.
tips
Instead of building the raised bed around the tree, you can dig it up and place it in the bed if it is not old and too established in its location.