DIY Raised Garden Bed

Cedar and redwood are the most popular choices because they contain natural oils that resist rot and insects, typically lasting 10 to 15 years. Pressure-treated lumber is a more affordable alternative, and modern pressure-treated wood has been considered safe for garden use since the industry phased out arsenic-based CCA treatments in 2004.

Most vegetables thrive in raised beds that are 12 to 18 inches deep, though root vegetables like carrots and potatoes benefit from 18 inches or more. Shallow beds of 6 to 8 inches can work for leafy greens and herbs, but deeper beds provide better drainage and root development.

Lining the bottom with hardware cloth helps prevent burrowing pests like gophers and voles from entering from below, while a layer of landscape fabric suppresses weeds. Avoid plastic sheeting, which blocks drainage and can cause waterlogging and root rot.

A popular and cost-effective approach is the Square Foot Gardening method's 'Mel's Mix': one-third blended compost, one-third peat moss or coco coir, and one-third vermiculite. For larger beds where that blend is too expensive, many gardeners use roughly 50% quality topsoil and 50% compost.