A well-built raised bed should last 10 to 20 years — but only if you choose the right materials and assemble it properly. This guide covers everything from wood selection to drainage, so your first build is also your best.
Why Raised Beds?
Raised beds give you control over soil quality, drainage, and layout. They warm up faster in spring, reduce back strain, and keep pathways clean. Whether you are growing vegetables, herbs, or flowers, a raised bed is one of the best investments you can make in your garden.
Choosing Your Wood
The most important decision is material. Here is how the most common options compare:
- White oak — Naturally rot-resistant, beautiful grain, lasts 15-20 years untreated. Our top recommendation.
- Cedar — Lightweight, aromatic, naturally resistant to decay. Lasts 10-15 years. Great for smaller builds.
- Ipe and Brazilian hardwoods — Extremely durable (25+ years) but heavy and expensive. Best for permanent installations.
- Pressure-treated pine — Affordable and widely available. Modern treatments are considered safe for edible gardens, but many growers prefer untreated options.
Sizing Your Bed
Standard dimensions that work well:
- Width: 3 to 4 feet — you should be able to reach the center from either side without stepping in.
- Length: 4 to 8 feet — longer beds need internal supports to prevent bowing.
- Depth: 12 inches minimum for most vegetables. 18 inches for root crops like carrots and potatoes. 6 inches is enough for herbs and lettuces.
Assembly Basics
For a simple 4x8 foot bed at 12 inches deep:
- Cut four boards to length — two at 8 feet, two at 4 feet.
- Use 3-inch exterior screws or structural screws (not nails) at each corner.
- Add corner braces or 4x4 posts at each corner for extra rigidity.
- Level the bed on site before filling with soil.
- Line the bottom with landscape fabric if placing on grass (optional but recommended).
Drainage
Raised beds drain naturally — that is one of their advantages. Do not add gravel to the bottom (it actually impedes drainage by creating a perched water table). Just fill with quality raised bed soil mix: roughly 60% topsoil, 30% compost, 10% perlite or coarse sand.
What We Make
Our white oak raised beds come in standard sizes (4x4, 4x8, 2x8) at 12 and 18 inch depths. They ship flat-packed with pre-drilled holes — assembly takes about 20 minutes with a drill. Custom sizes are available.