Start by choosing a flat, sunny area for your raised bed. Most vegetables and herbs grow best with 6–8 hours of direct sunlight each day, so place your bed where it gets plenty of light and is easy to water.

Before assembly, lay cardboard over the area where the bed will sit. This helps block grass and weeds naturally while still allowing water to drain through.

Hint: You can reuse the same cardboard box your Oro Garden bed arrives in.

Carefully open the box and lay out all panels, bolts, edging, support bars, and hardware. Check everything before you begin so the assembly process feels easier and more organized.

Start connecting the metal panels using the included hardware. Keep the bolts slightly loose at first so you can adjust the shape as the frame comes together.

Once all panels are connected and the bed looks straight, tighten the bolts securely. Make sure the bed is sitting evenly before moving to the next step.

If your model includes internal support bars, install them before adding soil. These supports help the raised bed keep its shape once it is filled and prevent the sides from bowing outward.

Check that all bolts are tight, the frame feels stable, and the top edge is properly finished before filling the bed.

A deep raised bed does not need to be filled completely with premium soil. You can use natural materials in the lower section to reduce soil use and improve long-term soil health.

Place sticks, small branches, or untreated natural yard debris at the bottom of the bed. This adds bulk, creates airflow, and helps reduce the amount of soil needed.

Finish with quality raised bed soil and compost. This top layer is where your plant roots will grow, so it should be loose, nutrient-rich, and well-draining.

Add dry leaves or similar organic material over the branch layer. This helps fill gaps and creates a smoother layer between the bottom filler and the soil above.

Once the lower layers are in place, fill the top section with a rich soil blend designed for raised beds. A good mix usually includes high-quality garden soil, compost, and organic matter that drains well while still holding enough moisture for roots to thrive.

Leave enough room at the top so water does not run off the edges during irrigation. Then level the surface gently with a rake or your hands.

Before planting, you can add drip irrigation or soaker lines. Installing irrigation now makes watering easier and helps deliver moisture directly to the roots.

This step is optional, but it can save time and help keep your plants watered evenly during warm weather.

Now your bed is ready for seeds or seedlings. Space your plants based on their mature size so they have enough room for healthy roots and airflow.

After planting, water the bed deeply so the soil settles around the roots. For the first week, check the soil often and keep it evenly moist, especially during warm or windy days.