Popular Raised Garden Beds

While the initial cost of building or purchasing raised beds (as well as the soil needed to fill them) can be a gut punch, the benefits of growing plants this way are many! I’ve been vegetable gardening in raised beds for 25 years. My first home had just a few plants behind the garage, butting up to an old alley. Not pretty, but I loved it. My next home has played host to a garden that has truly evolved. I started with four beds made from treated lumber that was l-shaped and had plenty of room for tomatoes, peppers and herbs. As time went on, I began growing many specialty items (I was a chef/ restaurateur for many years and grew the items that were tough to source). My garden continued to expand and is now home to 13 raised beds. I’m a fan, and here’s why: fewer weeds, less soil erosion, no soil compaction from being walked on, warmer soil earlier, customised soil (because you filled it), warm soil for a longer growing season, great drainage and my favourite, less bending required to maintain. There are so many popular ones to buy and build, but here are my picks for popular raised garden beds:

Raised Beds on Legs

So, popular raised garden beds on legs? They are exactly the same as classic raised beds. Still, raising it off the ground allows you to save your back (a great option for anyone with limited mobility or who despises bending/crouching). It largely prevents the need for fencing to keep out pests like bunnies and rodents. The aesthetics of these beds are often very appealing, too. This one from Cedar Planters by Earth Elevated is gorgeous, sustainably sourced and made from cedar, a natural wood that is weather-resistant. 

Wood

Looking for popular raised garden beds made of wood? This is a popular and cost-effective option when starting with raised beds. The expense isn’t terrible, which makes it a good option. You can easily add more if you enjoy them and haven’t gone broke if you decide they aren’t for you. Typically, these don’t have a bottom, sit right on the ground and are easy to assemble. Tons of options exist. This traditional version from Sunnydaze is a lovely, stylish value.  It’s a square-shaped planter box,  built to last and features a durable fir wood construction. ( I think Pine).  All the necessary hardware, components, and tools needed are included.

Composite

These beds are very popular. They come in various colours and forms, with popular models offering dividers for square foot gardening. Some offer a smooth finish, while others feature a textured wood-grain finish. This 4 by 4 foot option from Lowe’s boasts eco-friendly composite boards made from 38% post-consumer recycled plastic and 62% sustainable hardwood fibers. These beds are extremely low maintenance and won’t rot, warp, fade or splinter. They are a sane to put together, too.

Metal