The Pros and Cons of Cedar Raised Garden Beds
Are you thinking of increasing your gardening skills? Nothing is more enjoyable than growing your fruit and vegetables in your backyard. However, when it comes to picking the best type of cedar-raised garden beds, it can be a difficult decision.
There are plenty of fantastic materials available to you. Yet, wood and cedar wood, in particular, is a prevalent type of material. But there must be some drawbacks.
If you have, you’re in the right place. Keep reading to learn about the pros and cons of cedar-raised garden beds.
The Garden Looks Neater
The cedar wood presents an attractive, all-natural appearance without the need for painting or preservatives. The enclosed bed also creates a neat effect, keeping the plants, soil, and mulch confined to a single area and away from surrounding areas.
It means individual beds can be distinguished and varieties kept separate. It reduces the amount of weeding and composting required with the borders. Cedar-raised garden beds also represent less maintenance for pathways, as they can easily be wiped away.
They Warm Up Quicker in Spring
Raised beds are far easier to regulate than in-ground beds, and due to the elevation above ground, they will absorb more heat from the sun due to being exposed longer. It is beneficial to plants, as they can begin to sprout and grow earlier in warmer climates, and they will be able to strengthen their roots faster.
Because they are made of cedar, they are more durable and resist outside elements such as fungus and mold that can damage plants. In addition, cedar wood is naturally bug-repellent, which can help keep away pesky insects.
They Cost Money to Build
One of the significant downsides is that cedar-raised garden beds cost money to build. Building a raised garden bed requires wooden boards, usually constructed with cedar, which can cost substantial money. The price can quickly increase to make more than one or a more extensive garden bed. Furthermore, cedar is a relatively softwood, so while it is expensive, it might need regular repairs and replacements.
Requires More Watering
It requires more watering than traditional in-ground gardens because the raised beds can dry out quicker. The dry climate can encourage water to evaporate out of the soil quickly. The porous nature of cedar also allows for water to move through the wood and out of the garden soon, leading to even more water loss.
Additionally, cedar is a natural insulator, lacking the features of trapping heat and evaporating water as the soil does. Gardeners must stay proactive to ensure their raised beds are adequately hydrated to safeguard their plants’ survival. You can view more modern backyard designs to learn more about garden upgrades.
Exploring the Pros and Cons of Cedar-Raised Garden Beds
Overall, cedar-raised garden beds provide an excellent environment for gardeners, allowing for soil quality control, a longer-lasting construction, and convenience in organization and maintenance. With these advantages come some drawbacks, such as the higher price tag for the wood and potential problems with warping over time. Weigh your options to find the best solution for your garden needs-lightweight is only sometimes best!
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Yvan Lebrun is a trusted expert in the field of product & service reviews. With over a decade of experience analyzing and comparing services online, he shares his valuable experience with readers at GoodSitesLike so consumers can make educated decisions before making a purchase.
