Cedar vs Composite for Raised Beds?
Wood rots, with an average life where the soil touches it of 5 years. Metal cuts and rusts. Treated lumber is toxic and leeches chemicals. Plastic tends to warp and bend with a load of soil next to it. Composite boards like Trex aren’t meant for this kind of use, and require supports to prevent warping. So What is the best material for raised beds?
Metal vs Wood for Raised Beds?
Modern looking metal raised beds are trending in urban settings now, but homeowners perhaps are unaware of the danger that the sharp, exposed edges in most beds post to children and adults. One fall, and it will be very clear why metal raised beds are a hazard in most situations. In addition, non galvanized metal will rust out relatively quickly when in contact with soil, and galvanized metal contains zinc, and it is unclear how much is contained in soil that is adjacent to galvanized metal.
Best Lumber for Raised Beds?
All lumber is temporary for raised garden beds. Cedar and Redwood are naturally the most rot resistant untreated wood found in the US, but most wood lasts 4-6 years, and will rot quickly when in contact with warm, moist soil, rich in microbes, which is what is best for growing your garden. You might be tempted to use Pressure treated lumber for your raised beds, but…
Pressure Treated Wood or Railroad Ties for Raised Beds?
You never want to use pressure treated or chemically treated lumber, NEVER USE Railroad ties for raised garden beds, as the treated lumber contains chemicals that are hazardous to human health and can leach into the soil and your food.
Mineralized Composite Raised Bed!
Durable Greenbed’s patented mineralized wood chip composite panels are strong, non-toxic, durable and attractive. We haven’t found a better solution. Have you?
