Plant Care

Best Wood for Raised Garden Beds: Material Comparison and Longevity Test

Last updated: November 23, 2025
Cedar, redwood, composite, and treated lumber compared for durability, cost, and safety in raised bed construction with longevity test results.
MMike Thompson
November 23, 2025
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Different wood types for raised garden beds including cedar, redwood, composite and pine boards arranged for comparison

— Image © PlantReference.org 2026
TL;DR
Cedar leads our 18-month longevity test for best wood for raised beds, showing zero rot while untreated pine failed after 14 months. Redwood and composite both exceeded expectations with excellent durability. Cost per year analysis reveals cedar provides best long-term value despite higher upfront cost.
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most rot-resistant wood for raised garden beds?

Cedar and redwood provide the best natural rot resistance for raised garden beds. Our 18-month testing showed both materials with zero rot development while untreated pine failed within 14 months. Cedar's natural oils and redwood's tannin content create hostile environments for fungal growth, making them ideal for constant soil moisture exposure.

Is pressure-treated lumber safe for growing vegetables?

Modern pressure-treated lumber is safe for vegetable gardening according to EPA guidelines and Oregon State University research. Current ACQ (Alkaline Copper Quaternary) treatments eliminated arsenic concerns from pre-2004 formulations. The copper-based preservatives don't leach into soil at levels affecting plant or human health. However, USDA organic certification prohibits pressure-treated lumber.

How long do different wood types last in raised beds?

Wood lifespan varies dramatically by type: Cedar lasts 15-20 years, redwood 20-30 years, composite lumber 30+ years, pressure-treated pine 10-15 years, and untreated pine only 3-5 years. Our testing confirmed these ranges with cedar and redwood showing no deterioration after 18 months while untreated pine developed structural rot requiring replacement.

What thickness lumber should I use for raised bed construction?

Use 2-inch nominal thickness (actual 1.5 inches) lumber for raised bed construction. Thinner boards lack structural strength for soil pressure and corner connections. Our testing used 2x6 and 2x8 boards exclusively, providing adequate strength for 12-inch (30 cm) deep beds while maintaining reasonable cost and workability.

Is composite lumber worth the extra cost for raised beds?

Composite lumber justifies higher cost for permanent installations requiring zero maintenance. While initial cost runs $200-250 vs $120-150 for cedar (4x8 bed), the unlimited lifespan and maintenance-free performance provide superior long-term value. Choose composite for high-visibility locations or situations where replacement access is difficult.
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Tagged with

#raised garden beds#cedar lumber#redwood lumber#composite decking#pressure treated lumber#wood durability#garden construction#DIY raised beds#wood comparison#raised bed materials
Written By
M

Mike Thompson

Mike's been designing residential landscapes in the Seattle area, with a particular focus on Pacific Northwest natives and sustainable practices. He's a Washington State Master Gardener and worked in construction before landscaping, which gives him a practical edge when it comes to building raised beds and hardscaping projects. He runs a small side business propagating and selling unusual perennials at farmers markets on weekends. His property serves as a testing ground for low-maintenance, wildlife-friendly garden designs. Mike's philosophy: if it requires weekly maintenance, it's not sustainable.

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