How to Make a Garden Out of a Canoe

Raised beds allow you to grow plants and crops in a small space. They also provide a remedy for poor soil conditions, and you can typically plant earlier in the season since raised beds have warmer soil virtually free of pests and diseases. An old canoe works well for a rustic bed with character, and its shape provides room for both larger and smaller crops.

Canoe
Sand paper
Drill
Garden tools
Garden soil
Compost
Water
Plants/seeds

Instructions

- 1
  Drill holes in the bottom of the canoe for even drainage. If the bottom has rotted out, you already have plenty of drainage and can just use the boat frame for your raised garden.
- 2
  Clear out an area large enough to house your canoe garden. Remove weeds, rocks, pebbles and invasive roots. Rake the area flat.
- 3
  Place your canoe on the cleared area. Line the bottom of the inside with pebbles or gravel. Fill the canoe 3/4 full with a mix of garden soil and compost. Water the mixture, then allow the soil to settle. Top off the bed with another layer of soil.
- 4
  Plant your crops, following care instructions. Plant vining and creeping vegetation on the edges of the canoe for an attractive fall of green once they mature.
- 5
  Thin out seedlings several weeks after they appear. Stake plants that need support as they grow larger, like tomatoes, or place a small cage around the plant once it begins to vine.

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