Wicking Garden Beds

Have you heard of a wicking garden bed?

A wicking garden bed is a type of raised garden bed designed to efficiently use water by preventing the water from leaving the bottom of the bed with a waterproof liner or layer. This creates a water reservoir underneath the soil thus creating a self-watering system that delivers moisture directly to the plant roots, reducing water wastage and promoting more efficient water utilisation.

You don’t need to be a DIY enthusiast to make one of these fantastic beds, they can be small or large to fit a multitude of spaces. The absolute best way to find out how to make a wicking garden bed is to join one of David de Vries’s workshops!

Dave is the man behind Food Gardening in New Zealand and has been teaching and gardening across temperate, tropical, subtropical and arid landscapes in New Zealand, India and Australia over the last 25 years. He has run this workshop over 50 times to over 600 participants to bring his expertise in building wicking garden beds using readily available materials, worm composting and site selection.

In these very popular, practical Wicking Garden Bed Workshops Dave demonstrates a construction of productive small and large wicking beds. He also covers growing media, propagation, seasonal selection and watering systems to ensure you have a bountiful, water efficient growing system.

You’ll learn to build a range of beds large and small and learn about the value of making and including nutrient and microbe rich compost into a successful productive food garden.

Wicking Garden Bed Workshops with Dave

Email [email protected] for more information, and check out the Food Gardening in New Zealand Facebook page here.

South Kaipara Feb 17, at the beautiful Dune Lakes Lodge, Horse Learning Centre, email Dave at the address above.

Whangarei Feb 24, for tickets click here.

Kerikeri Feb 25, for tickets click here.

If these dates and locations don’t suit Dave is looking to run more over summer and he’s happy to travel.

Where are you? Do you see an opportunity to run a workshop in your area? Get in touch with Dave.

Benefits of Wicking Garden Beds …

Water Efficiency: Wicking beds can be more water-efficient compared to traditional watering methods, as they reduce water evaporation and wastage.

Consistent Moisture: The capillary action ensures a consistent supply of moisture to the plant roots, promoting healthier growth.

Less Frequent Watering: Wicking beds often require less frequent watering, making them suitable for busy individuals or those in arid regions.

Sustainability: Wicking beds can contribute to sustainability by conserving water resources and reducing the environmental impact associated with excessive water use.

Better Crop Yields: With consistent moisture and improved water management, plants may experience less stress and produce better yields.

Wicking beds can be constructed in various sizes, making them suitable for both small and large spaces. They are relatively simple to build with readily available materials.

While wicking garden beds offer several benefits, it’s important to note that success depends on proper construction and maintenance, which is why Dave’s workshops are so valuable. Anyone with basic DIY skills can create a wicking garden bed, and it can be a great option for those looking to garden in a more sustainable and water-efficient way.