1. Planning and Design
- Determine the size and location of your raised bed. Ensure it receives adequate sunlight based on the plants you intend to grow.
- Sketch a rough design, including dimensions and shape.
2. Preparing the Site
- Clear the area of weeds and debris.
- Level the ground where the bed will be placed.
- Mark the outline of the bed using string or chalk.
3. Gathering Materials
- Collect long, flexible branches or twigs. Willow and hazel are preferred for their flexibility and strength.
- Cut the branches into uniform lengths, considering the height and circumference of your bed.
4. Installing Stakes
- Cut the stakes to the desired length (height of the bed plus 2 feet).
- Hammer the stakes into the ground at regular intervals around the perimeter of the marked area, leaving about 2 feet of stake protruding above ground.
5. Weaving the Wattle
- Start at one corner, weaving the flexible branches horizontally between the stakes. Alternate the side each branch starts on to create a sturdy interlocking structure.
- Gently bend the branches as needed and weave them tightly.
- Trim excess lengths with pruning shears.
6. Building Up the Walls
- Continue adding layers of woven branches until the desired height is reached.
- Ensure each layer is tightly interwoven for stability.
7. Securing the Top
- Tuck the ends of the final layer of branches into the weave to secure them.
- Optionally, add a more rigid border on top for a neater finish.
8. Filling with Soil
- Mix garden soil with compost to provide a nutrient-rich environment for plants.
- Fill the wattle raised bed with the soil-compost mixture.
9. Planting
- Choose plants suitable for the size of the bed and the available sunlight.
- Plant your seeds or seedlings as per their specific requirements.
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