Because of this folks frequently ask us about the best type of wood to use for their planter boxes and raised garden beds.
Best wood for garden beds.
When considering wood you could use whole logs or more commonly planks.
Want to know the best wood for raised garden beds.
Hemlock fir and pine are suitable materials for raised beds but aren t very long lasting.
Whether you re a novice gardener or you re an experienced pro using raised garden beds is a great way to diversify your garden plans and get the most out of your outdoor space.
These types of beds are great for several reasons including keeping your garden pathways clear of weeds as well as protecting your plants from some pests like slugs and snails.
The purpose for chemical pressure treatment is to protect wood from rot decay and wood ingesting insects.
Redwood has been known to last for up to 20 years.
This wood makes perfect raised garden beds.
Pressure treated lumber is an option.
A raised bed planter can be a permanent fixture for perennial plants to settle in and mature.
The best of the best is cedar since it s naturally rot resistant doesn t require chemical treatments looks great and will last for 10 20 years.
It s also the most affordable option.
Raised beds are a great idea because they protect growing plants from the scuffs and kicks of passersby while allowing the soil to warm faster in the springtime generating an earlier crop.
Cedar another rot resistant wood cedar can last 10 15 years and looks gorgeous.
Pressure treated lumber has been a controversial topic for many years.
Raised beds are garden containers commonly made from wood and the type of wood we use will determine how long lasting safe and sustainable they are.
Douglas fir douglas fir can last 5 7 years and is the cheapest of the types of wood used for raised garden boxes.
Custom build your own garden box in any size or even add a few to your backyard oasis.
This raised bed has great curb appeal and is ideal for gardeners of all levels.
The spruce autumn wood raised beds can be as humble or creative as you like.
Even with untreated wood raised beds can last three or more years before sections need replaced making it a great economical option for those looking for solutions with temporary cheap and easy raised beds while you slowly add more longstanding beds to your garden over.
The best and worst materials for building raised garden beds.
Planks over an inch 3cm in thickness will last longer and the best wood for raised garden beds is hard wood.
If you are looking for designs i have free plans for building raised garden beds here.
The con is that it s also expensive around 2 3 times the cost of cheaper wood.