Raised garden bed materials compared
The five most common choices, with rough prices for one 4 × 8 ft bed about 12 inches tall (beds only, not soil).
| Material | Rough cost | Lasts | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar boards | $80–150 | 10–20 years | Natural wood that resists rot. The most popular choice. |
| Pine boards (untreated) | $20–40 | 3–5 years | Cheapest. Sold at every home store. Wears out sooner. |
| Galvanized metal | $100–300 | 20+ years | Sold as a kit. Long-lasting and tidy. Gets warm in full sun. |
| Composite boards | $120–250 | 15–25 years | Looks like wood but never rots. Sold as a kit. |
| Concrete block | About $2–3 per block (about 20 blocks per row of a 4 × 8 bed) | Lifetime | Sturdy and permanent. Blocks are heavy to lift. |
Prices vary a lot by region and store. These are rough ranges from retailer and gardening sources.
What size should a raised bed be?
- 4 × 8 ft: most popular.
- 4 × 4 ft: small space.
- 3 × 6 ft: easy reach.
- 3 × 8 ft: easy reach.
Keep beds no wider than 4 ft so you can reach the middle from either side without stepping on the soil. If a bed is against a wall or fence, make it 3 ft wide or less.
How tall should a raised bed be?
- 6 in: fine for lettuce, herbs and strawberries on good ground.
- 12 in: the standard. Deep enough for almost all vegetables.
- 18–24 in: much less bending, which makes a big difference for sore backs and knees. Uses more soil, so you can fill the bottom third with branches and leaves.
Is pressure-treated wood safe?
Many gardeners choose untreated cedar, untreated pine, metal, composite or block for food gardens to be safe. If you are unsure about a material, ask your local extension office.
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