- 1). Lay the landscape timbers or railroad ties in your desired shape over the area. Keep the length and width of the planter in proportion to the available space. Ideally, a width of 4 feet is convenient for most gardeners because it provides easy access from either side. Insert the tip of a spade through the turf along the walls of the timbers or ties to outline the walls of the planter.
- 2). Remove the timbers or ties and keep them aside. Strip any grass or vegetation within the market outline and discard. Also dig down one spade's depth over the outline of the timbers or ties to form a trench over which you will lay the planter's walls.
- 3). Spread 2 inches of fine gravel over the base of the trench and level it with a hoe.
- 4). Lay the timbers or ties over the trench. Adjust the ends of each timber so it rests flush against the other length. Lay a length of lumber diagonally over the timbers and check with a carpenter's level to determine whether the forming planter is square and even. Add or remove gravel underneath to adjust a lumber's position, if necessary.
- 5). Drill pilot holes spaced 2 feet apart through the tops of the lengths of timbers or ties. Position the tip of a 10-inch rebar through each hole and drive it home using a sledgehammer until its top is level with the timbers. Pound each rebar carefully so you don't knock the timber out of level.
- 6). Lay a second row of timbers or ties over the base or previous row. Drive two timber screws through a corner of each timber to join it to the ones directly below. Also drill an additional screw through the center of the timber for added security if it is very long. Repeat the process of adding other rows above the planter until it reaches your desired height.
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