canteiros

Canteiros are beds or strips of soil prepared for cultivating plants, commonly used in gardens, parks, and urban landscapes. The term refers to a bordered plot that contains soil and keeps plants organized from surrounding turf. In horticulture, canteiros may be raised above ground with borders made of wood, brick, stone, or concrete, or they may be level-ground beds integrated into the landscape. They are typically rectangular or long in shape to facilitate planting schemes, irrigation, and maintenance.

Design and use

Canteiros are used for a wide range of plants, including vegetables, herbs, ornamentals, and perennials. Raised canteiros improve drainage and soil warmth, promote root development, and allow easier incorporation of compost and other soil amendments. They also simplify weed control, irrigation management, and crop rotation. In urban environments, canteiros contribute to aesthetics, biodiversity, and microclimate regulation in streetscapes and public spaces.

Construction and materials

Border materials commonly include timber, bricks, concrete, or stone. Typical dimensions balance ease of access with sufficient rooting volume, and widths are often designed so a person can reach the center from either side. Substrate mixtures combine native soil with compost and organic matter to create a fertile, well-draining growing medium. Irrigation frequently relies on drip or soaker systems connected to the canteiro layout.

Other uses

In Regional Portuguese usage, canteiro can also refer to a construction site or work area, as in canteiro de obras. In urban planning, canteiros centrais denote central planting medians within roadways and public avenues. The term therefore covers both horticultural beds and related landscape or worksite contexts.