Best Materials for Building Raised Garden Beds on a Budget?

I have some raised beds that have lasted for over 30 years! I used pressure-treated wood before the newer regulations came about. They’re still solid, but I plan to use ground contact-rated treated lumber for my next build, topped with non-treated wood to ensure durability without compromising safety.

Just a heads up that modern treated lumber is supposed to be safe for gardening. The chemicals they've used in the past are different now, so if you're concerned about toxicity, you may want to look into that.

If you're looking for budget options, consider using free wood pallets. You can take them apart and use the wood to build your raised beds! It's an inexpensive way to get started and you can often find pallets at local businesses.

I built my garden beds out of cinder blocks and lined them with wire to keep pests like gophers out. Then I added leaf litter, straw, and a layer of manure before topping it off with potting soil. It works great and gives you a nice sturdy structure! Good luck with your gardening! ?

As someone who's been gardening for years, I can tell you that metal raised beds have been a game changer for me. I initially tried cheaper wooden beds, but they've deteriorated much faster than my metal ones. I recommend checking out the VegoGarden brand—they're pricier upfront, but they'll last for decades, which makes them worth it in the long run!