Garden

Raised bed from timber: which wood and how to build one?

Build your own raised vegetable bed from Douglas or pressure-treated timber - sizes, durability and fixings.

By Andre Hassler

4 min leestijd

Suitable for raised beds and planter boxes

A raised vegetable bed from timber is quick to build yourself with boards and corner posts. Choose wood that can handle moisture: Douglas (above ground) or pressure-treated timber for longer life in ground contact.

Materials

  • Boards 20–30 mm thick, width to taste
  • Corner posts or screw connections
  • Root membrane / weed barrier optional
  • Stainless steel screws from hardware

Tips

Prevent direct contact between wet soil and the inside face with foil or liner (food-safe). For large beds: sturdy corners and cross-bracing if needed.

Frequently asked questions

Is pressure-treated timber safe near vegetables?

Prefer Douglas or hardwood with a liner; with pressure-treated timber always use a barrier foil between wood and soil.