If you’ve seen someone laying cinder blocks in their yard for a fall garden, they’re likely using them as a brilliant (and cheap!) raised bed or planting system. Here’s why this hack works so well—and how to do it yourself!
Why Use Cinder Blocks for a Fall Garden?
✅ Instant Raised Beds – No building required; just arrange blocks.
✅ Heat Retention – Concrete absorbs warmth, extending the growing season.
✅ Perfect for Small Spaces – Great for patios, urban yards, or poor soil.
✅ Built-In Planters – The holes can hold individual herbs, flowers, or veggies.
✅ Pest & Weed Control – Elevates plants away from ground pests and reduces weeds.
How to Set Up a Cinder Block Fall Garden
Materials Needed:
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Cinder blocks (standard 8x8x16-inch)
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Soil mix (raised bed or potting soil)
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Compost (for nutrients)
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Fall crops (kale, lettuce, spinach, radishes, garlic, etc.)
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Optional: Landscape fabric (to block weeds)
Steps:
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Choose a Sunny Spot – At least 6 hours of sun for most fall crops.
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Arrange Blocks –
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Lay them side by side to form a rectangle (open center = raised bed).
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Or place them hole-side up to plant in each opening (like a mini garden grid).
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Fill with Soil –
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For raised beds, fill the center with soil.
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For hole planting, fill each block cavity with soil.
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Plant!
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Leafy greens (spinach, Swiss chard)
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Root veggies (radishes, carrots)
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Herbs (parsley, cilantro, thyme)
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Garlic & onions (plant in fall for spring harvest).
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Mulch & Water – Keep soil moist as temperatures drop.
Bonus Tips:
🔥 Winter Prep – Cover with a frost cloth for extra protection.
🌱 Companion Planting – Mix flowers (pansies) with veggies to deter pests.
🎨 Paint Blocks – For a colorful, decorative touch!
This is a low-cost, low-effort way to grow fresh food deep into fall—no fancy tools needed. Would you like crop suggestions for your climate? 😊
