I've got 16 raised beds made of wood like pine, pressure-treated wood, and cedar. Despite using cedar (which wasn't cheap), I'm fed up with constant repairs and replacements every few years; some of these beds have been replaced multiple times in the 10 years I've lived here! Now I'm thinking about switching to metal raised beds for durability. Are Vego raised beds really worth the investment compared to cheaper off-brand ones I see on Amazon? I'm looking for something that will last a long time, ideally until I'm well into old age. I also want to know if there are other good brands out there. I'm planning on keeping it around 4x8 feet, with a height of 12-18 inches. My approach would be to cycle the soil each year, refilling beds with fresh compost as necessary. Any insights would be appreciated!
3 Answers
If you’re up for a DIY project, you could make your own metal raised beds using metal roofing, which is quite cost-effective. I plan to replace some of my wooden ones this fall. It helps to customize the sizes that you need. Just a thought if you're handy!
I've had a mix of Birdies and Vego raised beds. The Birdies ones are about ten years old and still doing great, but the Vego beds I've had for four years are already showing signs of wear inside. Honestly, if you're looking for longevity, go with Birdies. They've held up much better in my experience!
Thanks for the heads up! Adding Birdies to my list.
I found some raised beds at Home Depot that are similar to Vego but much cheaper. I paid $65 for a 40x80x19 inch one. It’s my first year using them, and so far, they seem solid! Definitely worth looking into those for a budget option.
I’ve considered this, but I’m not sure about my skills when it comes to handling metal. What do you use for corners? I'd like to ensure they're square, not oval.