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Raised beds warm up faster, drain better, and let you control soil quality completely. Here is how to build and fill your first raised bed.
Choosing Materials
- Cedar — Naturally rot-resistant, lasts 10-15 years, no chemicals.
- Composite lumber — Recycled materials, 20+ year lifespan, splinter-free.
- Galvanized steel — Modern look, lasts decades, excellent drainage.
Size and Placement
Make it 4 feet wide so you can reach the center from either side. Minimum 12 inches deep, 18 inches for root vegetables. Place in the sunniest spot with 6-8 hours of direct sun daily.
The Perfect Soil Mix
60% topsoil, 30% compost, 10% perlite or coarse sand. Never use straight garden soil — it compacts badly in raised beds. Refresh with 2-3 inches of compost each spring.
What to Plant First
Start with lettuce, radishes, and herbs — forgiving and fast-producing. Add tomatoes and peppers once comfortable. A single 4×8 raised bed produces hundreds of dollars of vegetables per year.