What Is a Sleeper Garden

Sleepers are perhaps more commonly known as railroad ties or landscape timbers, though the term is better suited for larger landscape timbers comparable in size to the railroad ties.

What do you lay sleepers on?

The railway sleepers should ideally be laid on a surface that is level and firm. Many people simply lay them down directly on the earth, grass, deck or concrete.

How long will a sleeper last in the ground?

As a rule, hardwood oak sleepers tend to last the longest naturally with an expected lifespan of around 100 years. An untreated softwood will last for between three and five years if it sits on the ground, whilst treated softwoods can last between 20 and 30 years if they are maintained correctly.