Filling a raised bed is easy once you know how much soil to order. Use the calculator below, then follow our simple steps.
Soil calculator
Enter your bed's size to see how much soil you need. Use the Rectangular tab for slimline and rounded square beds, and the Round tab for round beds.
How much soil do I need?
Result
Results are estimates. Compaction and soil type can vary final volume.
Slimline and rounded square beds have rounded corners, so they hold slightly less than the calculator shows. That gives you a little extra to top up as the soil settles.
Quick guide
- Slimline 2000 x 600 x 830mm: about 1 cubic metre.
- Slimline 2000 x 600 x 415mm: about 0.5 cubic metres.
- Rounded square 1800 x 1000 x 830mm: about 1.5 cubic metres.
- Round 1200mm x 830mm: about 0.95 cubic metres.
How to fill your bed
- Set it in place. Put the bed exactly where you want it before you fill it. A full bed is very heavy to move.
- Add a base layer (tall beds). In an 830mm bed, you can fill the bottom third with branches, logs, leaves and straw. It saves on soil and breaks down over time to feed the bed.
- Add good soil. Fill the rest with a quality garden mix made for raised beds or vegetables.
- Mix in compost. Work some compost into the top layer for extra nutrients.
- Water it in. Give the bed a good soak and let it settle for a few days before planting.
- Top up. Soil settles over the first season, so add a little more as needed.
Building a wicking bed?
Wicking beds have a water reservoir at the bottom, so they're filled differently. See our guide to wicking garden beds.
Haven't chosen your bed yet? Use Find My Bed to see every bed that fits your space, then come back here to work out your soil.