Building an Enclosed Garden

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How to Build an Enclosed Garden with 4x4 Posts, 2x4s, and Plastic Mesh to Keep Deer Out

If you’ve ever tried to keep a garden thriving, you know how challenging it can be to protect it from wildlife like deer, rabbits, and other critters. Building a sturdy, enclosed garden using pressure-treated wood and mesh is one of the most effective ways to keep animals out while maintaining the beauty of your space. In this blog post, I’ll walk you through how to build an enclosed garden using 4x4 posts, 2x4s, and plastic mesh to safeguard your plants.

Materials You'll Need

- 4x4 pressure-treated posts (for the frame)

- 2x4 pressure-treated lumber (for support rails)

- Plastic mesh fencing (durable enough to keep out animals)

- Concrete mix (for setting posts) – alternatively you can use metal post holders.  I would recommend at least 24 inches of depth in ground of you decide on this option.

- Wood screws or galvanized nails

- Gate hardware (if you plan on installing a garden gate)

- Drill and saw

- Level

- Staple gun (for attaching mesh)

Step 1: Plan and Measure Your Garden Space

Before starting, measure the space where you want to build your enclosed garden. Ensure that you have enough room for your plants and pathways. A typical enclosed garden is about 6 to 8 feet tall to keep out deer, which can easily jump over shorter fences. Lay out the 4x4 posts, spacing them about 6 to 8 feet apart, depending on the size of your garden.

Step 2: Dig Holes and Set the 4x4 Posts

Using a post hole digger, dig holes about 2 feet deep for the 4x4 posts. Ensure the holes are wide enough for the posts and some concrete mix. Place each 4x4 post into the hole and check for levelness using a spirit level. 

Once the posts are positioned correctly, fill the holes with concrete and allow them to set for 24 to 48 hours. These posts will serve as the main framework for your enclosed garden, so make sure they’re sturdy and perfectly aligned.

Step 3: Attach the 2x4 Support Rails

After the posts are securely in place, it's time to add the 2x4s. These horizontal beams will provide support for the plastic mesh and reinforce the structure. Measure and cut the 2x4s to fit horizontally between each pair of 4x4 posts. 

You’ll need two rows of 2x4s: one at the top and one at the bottom of the posts. Use wood screws or galvanized nails to attach the 2x4s to the posts. Pocket hole screws offer excellent accuracy and resilience and come in the right sizes for joining a 2x4 to a 4x4 post.  Ensure that the screws are tight to prevent wobbling.

Step 4: Install the Plastic Mesh Fencing

Next, roll out the plastic mesh and begin attaching it to the frame. Start at one corner of the garden, and use a staple gun to secure the mesh to the 4x4 posts and the 2x4s. I recommend using a battery powered or compressed air powered stapler.  Narrow crown staplers can be used but are a little harder to ensure coverage.  I used an upholstery stapler that fired 1” wide crown staples.  Be sure to pull the mesh taut as you work your way around the enclosure to prevent sagging.

Plastic mesh is a great choice because it’s durable yet lightweight, making it easy to install. Make sure the mesh reaches from the bottom 2x4 to the top 2x4 to ensure no gaps that animals could squeeze through.

Step 5: Build and Install a Gate

If you want to access your garden easily, building a gate is a practical option. Cut additional 2x4s to create a rectangular frame for the gate. Attach the plastic mesh to the frame in the same way as the rest of the enclosure.

Use gate hardware, such as hinges and a latch, to install the gate between two 4x4 posts. Make sure it swings freely and that the latch is secure enough to keep the gate closed when not in use.

Step 6: Secure the Base

To prevent smaller animals, like rabbits, from burrowing under the fence, consider digging a shallow trench along the base of the enclosure. You can bury a portion of the mesh in the ground or place rocks and bricks along the edge to keep animals from getting in.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

After the structure is complete, give the garden a final check to ensure there are no gaps or weak spots. You can also stain or paint the 4x4 and 2x4 posts for added durability and aesthetic appeal. Once everything is secure, your enclosed garden is ready for planting!

Conclusion

Building an enclosed garden with 4x4 posts, 2x4s, and plastic mesh is a straightforward and effective solution for keeping animals like deer out of your garden. With sturdy materials and careful construction, you’ll have a protected space for growing vegetables, flowers, or anything else you want to cultivate. Plus, this project is durable enough to withstand outdoor elements for years to come.

By following these steps, you’ll create a functional and attractive enclosed garden that will allow you to enjoy the fruits of your labor without the constant worry of critters getting in. Happy gardening!