Sometimes a straightforward question and a well-considered response produce the darnedest reaction.

A couple weeks ago, we gave a reader some suggestions on how to convert her concrete patios into an attractive garden, complete with hardscape. She wanted some greenery, but eschewed the easy way out: a series of containers. Potted plants just didn’t cut it for her.

Sometimes a straightforward question and a well-considered response produce the darnedest reaction.

A couple weeks ago, we gave a reader some suggestions on how to convert her concrete patios into an attractive garden, complete with hardscape. She wanted some greenery, but eschewed the easy way out: a series of containers. Potted plants just didn’t cut it for her.

One option we gave her was to build raised beds on the concrete pad. Another alternative we suggested was to rent a concrete saw and an electric jackhammer and cut out areas of the patio, exposing the soil to create an ornamental/edible garden.

We said it would be labor intensive and require some imagination, but not a high skill level. In short, it was the perfect do-it-yourself project.

Pretty straightforward advice, we thought, but not everyone agreed.

"This is not a do-it-yourself job," commented one reader. "Hire a contractor who can handle these tools. Plus, rental tools are notorious for being in poor condition and will add to the likelihood of an accident working with these materials.

"If there are spaces between the slabs, or you can knock off some of the edges to create spaces, that should be sufficient drainage. Use layers of sand and gravel at the base of your raised beds to increase drainage and a light soil mix with plenty of vermiculite so it drains well.

"If you do go the do-it-yourself route I wonder if you can sue for this advice when you chop off a toe."

We agree with the comment about soil amendment, but that’s it. Concrete saws are on wheels and are pushed. To cut off a toe, you would have to stick your foot in the blade on purpose.

A couple of things to remember: Safety glasses are a must for the saw; add hard-toed shoes or metal foot protectors for the hammer. Pay attention, work safely, use proper safety gear and you’ll be OK.

Another reader passed along some good advice on the subject of soil amendment:

"Just be aware that concrete can leach lime into the soil and make it too alkaline for some plants. If you break up the concrete, you will probably need to amend the soil with something acidic to neutralize it."

Good advice: Buy a test kit from your local nursery and test the soil’s PH level.

Yet another reader recommends having a soils engineer evaluate the situation first.

"I’d get advice from a soils engineer before I did anything. The last thing you want is to create an erosion problem that could lead to land movement, and in a worst-case scenario the loss of your house or one or more neighboring houses. Find out what is safe and what is not before you begin."

Show Comments Hide Comments
Sign up for Inman’s Morning Headlines
What you need to know to start your day with all the latest industry developments
By submitting your email address, you agree to receive marketing emails from Inman.
Success!
Thank you for subscribing to Morning Headlines.
Back to top
Only 3 days left to register for Inman Connect Las Vegas before prices go up! Don't miss the premier event for real estate pros.Register Now ×
Limited Time Offer: Get 1 year of Inman Select for $199SUBSCRIBE×
Log in
If you created your account with Google or Facebook
Don't have an account?
Forgot your password?
No Problem

Simply enter the email address you used to create your account and click "Reset Password". You will receive additional instructions via email.

Forgot your username? If so please contact customer support at (510) 658-9252

Password Reset Confirmation

Password Reset Instructions have been sent to

Subscribe to The Weekender
Get the week's leading headlines delivered straight to your inbox.
Top headlines from around the real estate industry. Breaking news as it happens.
15 stories covering tech, special reports, video and opinion.
Unique features from hacker profiles to portal watch and video interviews.
Unique features from hacker profiles to portal watch and video interviews.
It looks like you’re already a Select Member!
To subscribe to exclusive newsletters, visit your email preferences in the account settings.
Up-to-the-minute news and interviews in your inbox, ticket discounts for Inman events and more
1-Step CheckoutPay with a credit card
By continuing, you agree to Inman’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

You will be charged . Your subscription will automatically renew for on . For more details on our payment terms and how to cancel, click here.

Interested in a group subscription?
Finish setting up your subscription
×