2torial #0970:
Learn2 Make a Flower Bed (continued)

Lay the perimeter and prepare the soil

Once you've picked your spot, lay a garden hose down to mark the perimeter of your bed. Take an edging tool or a sharp spade, and using the hose as a guide, cut a line in the dirt about 5 inches (13 centimeters) deep.

If you want a seamless border, you can use bender board, which is available at plant nurseries and garden supply stores. This thin, wooden board is easy to insert into the ground (just push it into the line you've cut), and molds to the shape of your proposed flower bed. Bender board provides a deeper division along the perimeter than other borders, which helps prevent grass and weeds from creeping into your flower bed.

For a more formal look, cut a thicker line along the perimeter, and fill the border with bricks or stones. If you want the "bordered" look with bender board benefits, insert some board into the ground and then place stones or bricks over it.

Wait for dry conditions to prepare your dirt, because wet soil is very difficult to work with. With a spade or a trowel, loosen the dirt inside your flower bed and remove rocks to the depth of about a foot (30 centimeters). If you plan to use fertilizer, take soil samples to your local garden center for testing (for more on how to test and prepare your soil, see 2torial #0568: Plan a Vegetable Garden).

If your soil needs improving because it's too rocky, sandy, or dry, organic plant mix (a mix of organic, decomposed clippings) will richen and amend the soil. If water pools during a light rain or when you leave the sprinkler on, then your soil doesn't drain well, and you'll need to add sand (1 to 2 cups, or 250 to 500 milliliters, per square meter or yard is fine). Your objective is moist, well-drained soil with a pH of about six or seven.