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Can you use cedar for raised beds?

Published in Garden Materials 4 mins read

Yes, you can use cedar for raised beds, and it is a popular and generally excellent choice due to its natural properties.

Why Cedar is a Good Choice for Raised Beds

Cedar is highly regarded for raised bed construction primarily because of its inherent characteristics that help it withstand outdoor elements and the constant moisture of a garden environment.

Natural Rot and Insect Resistance

One of cedar's most significant advantages is its natural resistance to rot and decay. This is due to the presence of natural oils (phenols and thujaplicins) within the wood. This rot resistance is a major benefit for a raised bed, where the wood is in constant contact with moist soil and subject to the elements. These natural compounds also act as deterrents to many common garden pests and insects, reducing the need for chemical treatments.

Chemical-Free Gardening

Unlike treated lumber, cedar does not require chemical preservatives to enhance its longevity. This makes it an ideal option for organic gardeners or anyone looking to avoid potential chemical leaching into their garden soil, which could affect plant health or edibility.

Aesthetic Appeal

Cedar has a beautiful, rich color and distinctive aroma that many find appealing. It weathers gracefully to a soft, silvery-grey hue over time, adding a rustic charm to any garden landscape.

Workability

Cedar is a relatively soft wood, making it easy to cut, drill, and fasten, which simplifies the construction process for DIY enthusiasts.

Considerations When Using Cedar

While cedar offers many benefits, it's important to be aware of certain characteristics that might influence its performance and your decision:

Density and Longevity

Cedar is not a very dense wood; it's softer than many other conifers. While its natural rot resistance is a great advantage for a raised bed, its lower density can work against it when it's subjected to the rigors of heavy watering and high biological loads within the soil. This can potentially impact its long-term structural integrity compared to denser, more durable woods or alternative materials.

Cost

Cedar is generally more expensive than other untreated wood options like pine or fir. The initial investment can be higher, though its longevity often offsets this over time.

Sourcing

Ensure you are sourcing cedar from sustainable and reputable suppliers. Different types of cedar (e.g., Western Red Cedar, Eastern Red Cedar) may offer slightly different characteristics in terms of rot resistance and color. Western Red Cedar is often considered superior for outdoor applications due to its higher concentration of protective oils.

Maximizing the Life of Your Cedar Raised Bed

To get the most out of your cedar raised bed, consider these practical tips:

  • Proper Drainage: Ensure excellent drainage at the bottom of your raised bed to prevent waterlogging, which can accelerate wood decomposition. A layer of gravel or screen can help.
  • Lining (Optional): While not strictly necessary due to cedar's natural resistance, lining the inside of your raised bed with a durable, non-toxic pond liner or thick plastic sheeting (with drainage holes) can create an additional barrier between the soil and the wood. However, ensure air can still circulate to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Thicker Boards: Opt for thicker cedar boards (e.g., 2x6 or 2x8 inches) for increased durability and stability, especially for larger beds.
  • Elevate Boards: If possible, elevate the base of the cedar frame slightly off the ground using gravel or rot-resistant footings to prevent direct soil contact and improve air circulation.
  • Exterior Sealing: Consider applying a non-toxic, food-safe sealant or natural oil to the exterior surfaces of the cedar to protect it from UV radiation and weathering. Avoid sealing interior surfaces that will contact soil or edible plants.

Cedar vs. Other Popular Raised Bed Materials

Here's a quick comparison of cedar with other common raised bed materials:

Feature Cedar Untreated Pine/Fir Treated Lumber (ACQ) Metal (Galvanized Steel) Stone/Concrete
Rot Resistance High (natural) Low High (chemical treatment) Very High Very High
Longevity Good (10-20+ years) Low (3-7 years) Moderate (15-25 years) High (20-30+ years) Very High (50+ years)
Cost Moderate to High Low Low to Moderate Moderate to High High
Chemicals None (natural) None Yes (ACQ safe for gardening, but still chemical) None (if food-safe galvanized) None
Aesthetics Natural, rustic, aromatic Plain, often painted/stained Varies, often green tint Modern, industrial Natural, durable
Workability Easy to cut and assemble Easy to cut and assemble Easy to cut and assemble Requires specific tools, can be sharp Labor-intensive, heavy

In conclusion, cedar is a superb choice for raised beds, offering a blend of natural resistance, aesthetic appeal, and chemical-free gardening. With a little care in construction and maintenance, your cedar raised beds can provide many years of productive gardening.