Raised Wicking Bed 1.0 x 1.0 x 0.5m

Raised Wicking Bed built on site from 167 x 50mm from Rescued/ Salvaged Cypress Macrocarpa Planks.

Length 100cm
Width 100cm
Height 50cm

We will arrive at your place and build the raised wicking bed on site for you. So we need a cleared level area, free of sharp stones, prepared before we arrive. A concrete area is also ok providing it is level.

When we finish it will be ready for you to add your own soil, which should be a mix of garden soil and potting mix, not too heavy.

Please include an extra 7.5cm for the overflow outlet.

Price includes:

• Raised wicking bed
• Installation on site
• Internal waterproof liner
• Cypress panels
• Overflow and level checker
• Water storage tubes in the base covered in a wicking sock.
• Scoria and geo textile

What is not included:

• Soil + potting mix (purchase seperately)
• Delivery, please select at checkout based on distance from Footscray

Enquire for other sizes.

Orto raised wicking beds have an internal wicking bed that feeds your plants water from below. You don't need to be an experienced gardener or have perfect soil conditions to grow your own fresh healthy herbs and vegies. You simply fill the water reservoir as required and harvest food as it grows.

The water reservoir and overflow system mean you cannot over water your plants by mistake. Don't stress if you have to go away for a week in summer — your plants will be fed water from below and be ready to harvest when you get back. In extreme heat, you may need to top up your wicking beds, but otherwise, they'll be well taken care of!

Inside the reservoir, we use an agi-pipe (a perforated pipe covered with a sock to enhance capillary action) and scoria. These components are included even if you choose not to purchase potting mix from us.

Wicking beds are increasingly popular for urban veggie gardens because they save 50% water usage and optimise growth by providing exactly the right amount of soil moisture in the root zone. Orto wicking beds include a reservoir level checker and overflow pipe so that you cannot overwater your plants. You can see the wicking process explained more thoroughly in our FAQ section.

One of the key advantages of Cypress Macrocarpa is its natural rot resistance. Unlike other timbers that require treatment with toxic chemicals or preservatives, Cypress Macrocarpa’s natural properties protect it from decay. This makes it a safer and more environmentally friendly option for outdoor use, especially in gardens and spaces where chemical leaching is a concern.

The Cypress Macrocarpa that we use is sustainably sourced from salvaged or rescued timber, including windfall and senescent trees, as well as wood repurposed from low-value outcomes like burning or landfill. It is processed at a small, family-run mill in the Gippsland area, reducing waste and transportation emissions while supporting local businesses.

Orto planter boxes are hand made in Footscray at our co-operative workshop. You are welcome to come and see us at work or alternatively, check out the functioning Orto boxes in some of Melbourne's most delicious fresh food conscious cafes. 

Delivery charge is from $59 per order based on your distance from Melbourne CBD. Pick up for free is also available from Footscray.