DIY Cedar Raised Garden Bed

If you’ve been to any hardware store or big box store in the spring, then chances are you’ve seen the pre-packaged garden beds. Yes, they’re convenient, but they certainly are not built for durability. Usually made of a plastic-ish material or thin wood, these boxes can quickly become an eyesore after a year or two. Now, I’m not saying they’re useless or shouldn’t be sold. In fact, if you’re not sure if gardening is going to be something you enjoy, then these cheap and quick options can be a good way to try out raised bed gardening.

However, if you’re looking to build quality, long lasting garden beds, then I strongly recommend you use durable materials. “You get what you pay for” is a statement surely meant for garden beds or really anything that will be sitting outdoors in the elements. Can I get an amen? (See my full post for using materials other than cedar; it's totally doable!)

2- 2x8x2 cedar boards

8- 3 in. bronze coated exterior wood screws

saw (if you don’t have access to a saw, many lumber stores will cut the boards for you at the store)

ruler/measuring tape

drill

1. Begin by cutting your 8-foot boards in half. This will give you 4 4-ft segments of board. 
2. Place the end of one board against the interior end of a second board. Use a pencil to mark where the 2 screws will go. Pre-drill holes for screws using the appropriate bit.

3.Then screw the boards together using your drill and the exterior wood screws. Choosing screws that hold up out doors is important for the life of your garden bed. Repeat this step with the third, then fourth board.

4.Once all boards have been attached, your bed is ready to be placed! Choose a spot that gets at least six hours of sunlight per day and does not tend to hold water during a heavy rain. Wood + standing water = bad idea.

Once your cedar raised bed garden is in place, fill it with good quality garden soil (or  make your own!). There is no need for 4×4’s in the corners (many people ask) because the 2 inch thick boards are so sturdy, and the soil itself helps to keep the bed in place. For beds of this size, square foot gardening is our preferred method, since you get the most use out of the space. 

So get out there and make a few garden beds this weekend. Come spring, you'll already be ready to garden!