DIY Strawberry Raised Garden Bed (5′×3′×7′) with Overhead Hanging Bar
Our favorite strawberry bed yet! This cedar build combines a generous 5′×3′ planting box, a raised rear tier for extra strawberries, and a 7′ overhead beam to hang baskets for cascading plants — perfect for small spaces and maximum harvest.
Watch the full build & planting overview above, then follow the plans below to build your own.
Project Overview
5′ L3′ W7′ H Hanging Bar Two-Tier Bed Beginner-Friendly
This design delivers vertical productivity and a tidy footprint. The lower 5′×3′ box grows your main strawberry rows, while the raised rear shelf increases capacity and keeps fruit clean. The overhead beam supports 2–3 hanging baskets for overflow plants or pollinator flowers.
Materials & Cut List
Lumber shown in nominal sizes. Cedar is ideal; redwood or pressure-treated (avoid soil contact for edibles) also works.
| Qty | Item | Dimensions / Cut | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4×4 posts | 7′ long | Corner posts & beam supports |
| 6 | 2×6 bed rails | (2) 60″, (2) 36″, plus (2) 60″ for upper rear tier | Lower box + raised rear planter |
| 4 | 2×4 braces | (2) 36″, (2) 60″ | Base stretchers & cross-bracing |
| 1 | 2×6 top beam | 60″ | Hanging-basket bar |
| 10–12 | Cedar fence pickets (optional) | Cut to height | Decorative exterior paneling |
| 1 | Hardware cloth | ~5′×3′ | Rodent barrier under soil (recommended) |
| 1 | 3″ exterior screws | — | Main structure |
| 1 | 2½″ exterior screws | — | Braces/trim |
| 3 | Hanging basket hooks | — | Overhead beam |
| — | Outdoor stain/sealant | — | Finish protection |
| — | Soil mix | ~20–25 cu ft | Blend for strawberries + compost |
Step-by-Step Build
- Layout & Prep. Mark a 5′×3′ rectangle. Level the area and lay hardware cloth if pests are an issue.
- Build the box. Assemble a 5′ (front/back) × 3′ (sides) rectangle using 2×6s. Check square and secure with 3″ screws.
- Attach the posts. Set four 7′ 4×4s at the corners. Clamp, plumb, and fasten through side rails.
- Add base bracing. Install 2×4 stretchers across the 3′ width near the bottom for rigidity.
- Build rear tier. Create a 5′ long × ~12″ deep upper planter shelf along the back; fasten 12–16″ above the lower bed.
- Install top beam. Cut a 60″ 2×6 beam and secure between rear posts at 7′ height for hanging baskets.
- Optional paneling. Add vertical pickets to the lower exterior for the finished look.
- Finish. Sand edges and apply outdoor-rated stain/sealer.
- Fill & Plant. Fill with soil, install drip lines, and plant strawberries 12″ apart. Hang 2–3 baskets for overflow plants or flowers.
Planting & Care Tips
- Spacing: 12–18″ between crowns; keep the crown at soil level.
- Water: Even moisture via drip irrigation, 2–3× per week in heat.
- Mulch: Straw helps retain moisture and keeps berries clean.
- Feeding: Monthly light feeding during growth; avoid heavy nitrogen.
- Sun: 6–8+ hours/day; afternoon shade helps in Zone 9b.
- Companions: Add alyssum or calendula to attract pollinators.
Get the Printable Plans
Includes materials, dimensions, and full build instructions for the 5′×3′×7′ strawberry bed with hanging bar.
Download the PDF Plans