I'm trying to create a raised garden bed measuring 6ft by 3ft and 32 inches tall. I've calculated the total cost, which includes pine lumber, soil, and plants, to be around $351 each. This amount is based on purchasing all materials from Lowe's and sourcing the plants and soil from different stores. Does this price seem reasonable to you? I'm curious to know if this is considered expensive for a DIY project like this. Thanks for your input!
3 Answers
That price sounds a bit high to me! Are you aware of how much of that total is due to the soil? A great tip is to fill your beds partially with sticks and leaves to take up about a third of the space. You can then top it off with affordable bulk soil from a landscape supply company, which usually costs around $35 for half a yard and should fill a bed like yours pretty well. Just my two cents, but it could really help lower your costs!
I'm curious about what kind of soil you plan to use. The topsoil around here is clay-heavy and difficult, so I mixed in peat moss and compost for better drainage and nutrients.
You might want to consider using corrugated sheet steel for the structure. You could build a wood and steel bed for about $75 to $125, and Lowes carries panels for roughly $20 each. It can be a budget-friendly option and lasts quite well!
I went to Menard's instead of Lowe's for lumber and saved a good amount! The quality might not be the same, but for a raised bed, it didn't matter much for me. Just something to think about if you have a Menard's nearby!
Unfortunately, we don't have Menard's in my area. I wish I could find similar savings!
I've been opting for steel raised beds, which can be pricey but they last much longer than wood. My wooden bed is already falling apart after just four years because of ants! It's interesting to explore options like cinderblocks too—some can look nice if you level and paint them.