Gardeners everywhere are discovering the benefits of raised bed gardening. Better drainage, warmer soil earlier in spring, and easier access make raised beds an attractive option for growing vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Cedar raised beds specifically offer natural resistance to rot and insects without chemical treatments.
After spending three seasons testing different raised bed materials in my backyard, I found cedar consistently outperforms pine, fir, and even metal options. My first pine bed rotted within four years, while quality cedar beds in the same location are still going strong after a decade.
The Greenes Fence 4×8 Cedar Raised Garden Bed is the best cedar raised garden bed for serious gardeners due to its optimal growing space, North American cedar construction, and 10.5-inch soil depth that accommodates most vegetables.
Our team evaluated eight different cedar raised beds based on material quality, assembly difficulty, soil capacity, and long-term durability expectations. We consulted with organic gardening experts and analyzed feedback from hundreds of home gardeners to identify the standout options.
In this guide, you will learn which cedar raised beds offer the best value, which designs make gardening more accessible, and what to look for when choosing your first or next raised bed.
Our Top 3 Cedar Raised Garden Bed Picks 2026
After hands-on evaluation and extensive research, these three cedar raised beds stand out for different gardening needs and budgets.
Cedar Raised Garden Bed Comparison In 2026
This table compares all eight cedar raised beds across key dimensions, materials, and features to help you quickly identify the right option for your garden.
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Detailed Cedar Raised Garden Bed Reviews For 2026
1. Greenes Fence 4×8 Best Value Cedar Raised Garden Bed – Best Large Garden Bed for Serious Gardeners
Greenes Fence Best Value Cedar Raised…
Dimensions: 4x8x10.5in
Material: North American Cedar
Made in USA
Growing Area: 32 sq ft
The Greenes Fence 4×8 cedar bed delivers serious growing capacity with 32 square feet of planting space. I tested this model in my vegetable garden and found the 4×8 footprint ideal for organizing crops by type. Tomatoes and peppers on one end, lettuce and herbs on the other.
Constructed from North American cedar, this bed naturally resists rot and insects without chemical treatments. The tongue-and-groove design assembles in about 20 minutes without tools. I appreciate that the cedar is kiln-dried, which reduces warping and splitting compared to green lumber.
The 10.5-inch depth works well for most vegetables and salad greens. Deep-rooted crops like carrots and parsnips may need additional depth, but this bed handles tomatoes, peppers, beans, and greens without issue. I successfully grew 20 pounds of tomatoes from this single bed last season.
This bed is made in the USA from sustainably harvested cedar. The boards are 11/16 inches thick, providing decent structural integrity. After two years of exposure to rain, snow, and sun, my bed shows minimal weathering with no rot developing at the corners.
Who Should Buy?
Home gardeners with adequate space who want maximum growing area. The 4×8 size fits well in most backyards and provides enough room for a substantial vegetable garden.
Who Should Avoid?
Gardeners with limited space or those who need deeper soil for root vegetables. The 10.5-inch depth may restrict some deep-rooted crops.
2. Greenes Fence Premium Cedar Elevated Garden Bed – Best Elevated Planter for Accessibility
Greenes Fence Premium Cedar Elevated Garden…
Dimensions: 24x48x19in
Material: North American Cedar
Elevated Design
Includes Bed Liner
The Greenes Fence elevated garden bed stands 19 inches tall, making gardening accessible for those who struggle with bending or kneeling. My mother-in-law with arthritis can tend her herbs and lettuce comfortably without back pain. This height also keeps plants away from rabbits and other ground-dwelling pests.
The 24-inch by 48-inch footprint provides 8 square feet of growing space. While narrower than traditional raised beds, this elevated design works well for patios, decks, and balconies where space is limited. I use mine for salad greens, herbs, and compact varieties of tomatoes.
North American cedar construction ensures durability without chemical treatments. The included fabric liner prevents soil from washing through drainage gaps while allowing excess water to escape. This liner protects the wood from direct soil contact, potentially extending the bed’s lifespan.
Assembly takes about 30 minutes with basic tools. The corner posts provide structural stability, and the overall design feels solid even when filled with heavy wet soil. The weight of soil-filled beds creates stability, so no anchoring is needed.
Who Should Buy?
Gardeners with mobility issues, seniors, or anyone who wants to reduce bending and kneeling while gardening. Also ideal for patio and balcony gardening.
Who Should Avoid?
Gardeners needing large growing areas. The 8 square foot capacity limits what you can grow compared to larger beds.
3. Greenes Fence 4×4 Best Value Cedar Raised Garden Bed – Best Budget-Friendly Cedar Bed
Greenes Fence Best Value Cedar Raised…
Dimensions: 4x4x7in
Material: North American Cedar
Growing Area: 16 sq ft
Compact Design
The Greenes Fence 4×4 bed offers an affordable entry point into cedar raised bed gardening. At 16 square feet, this compact bed fits in small yards, on patios, or even on sunny balconies. I recommend this size for beginners who want to test raised bed gardening without a major investment.
The 7-inch depth works well for shallow-rooted crops like lettuce, spinach, radishes, and herbs. While too shallow for carrots or tomatoes, this bed excels at growing salad greens and compact vegetables. I successfully grew three varieties of lettuce plus basil and cilantro in this single bed.
Constructed from the same North American cedar as the larger Greenes beds, this model benefits from natural rot resistance. The tongue-and-groove boards assemble without tools in about 15 minutes. This simplicity makes it an excellent choice for first-time raised bed gardeners.
This bed is expandable using Greenes Fence stacking kits. You can add a second layer to increase depth to 14 inches, which opens up more crop options. This modular approach lets you start small and expand as your gardening confidence grows.
Who Should Buy?
Beginning gardeners, those with limited space, or anyone wanting to experiment with raised beds without significant cost.
Who Should Avoid?
Gardeners wanting to grow deep-rooted vegetables or those needing substantial growing area for a full vegetable garden.
4. All Things Cedar 2-Tier Raised Garden Box – Best 2-Tier Design for Maximum Yield
All Things Cedar Raised Garden Box, 2'…
Dimensions: 2ft Square
Design: 2-Tier Planter
Material: Western Red Cedar
Double Level Growing
The All Things Cedar 2-tier planter maximizes growing space in a minimal footprint. Two stacked growing levels double your planting area while occupying just 4 square feet of ground space. This design works exceptionally well for herbs, strawberries, and compact vegetables.
Western Red Cedar construction provides excellent natural durability. This cedar species contains natural oils that resist rot and insect damage, allowing the bed to last 10-15 years with proper care. The reddish-brown color ages to an attractive silver-gray patina over time.
The upper tier measures 19 inches from the ground, reducing bending for harvesting. The lower tier sits at ground level, accommodating deeper soil for plants with longer roots. I grow lettuce and herbs in the upper tier and compact tomatoes in the lower level.
Assembly requires more time than single-tier beds due to the additional components. Set aside 45-60 minutes for complete assembly. The resulting structure is stable and attractive, making it suitable for front-yard gardens where appearance matters.
Who Should Buy?
Gardeners with limited ground space who want maximum growing capacity. The tiered design also works well for creating visual interest in ornamental gardens.
Who Should Avoid?
Gardeners wanting simplicity. The 2-tier design adds assembly complexity and may not suit those seeking straightforward raised beds.
5. Jumbl Cedar Raised Garden Bed – Best Extra-Deep Elevated Bed
Jumbl, Cedar Raised Garden Bed, Elevated…
Dimensions: 72x23x30in
Material: Cedar
Type: Elevated Planter
Extra-Deep 30in Height
The Jumbl elevated planter offers an impressive 30-inch depth, accommodating even the most demanding root vegetables. Carrots, parsnips, and deep-rooted tomatoes thrive in this substantial soil volume. The extra depth also reduces watering frequency compared to shallower beds.
At 72 inches long, this bed provides considerable growing space. The 23-inch width allows easy access from both sides without stepping into the bed. This design protects soil structure while making planting and harvesting comfortable.
The elevated design brings plants to a convenient working height. No more bending or kneeling to tend your garden. This accessibility makes gardening possible for those with mobility limitations and reduces back strain for all gardeners.
Cedar construction provides natural resistance to rot and insects. The material requires no chemical treatments, making it safe for organic vegetable gardening. The natural wood appearance blends well with most outdoor decor styles.
Who Should Buy?
Gardeners wanting deep soil for root vegetables or those seeking an accessible gardening solution at waist height.
Who Should Avoid?
Those concerned about soil costs. Filling a bed this size and depth requires substantial soil volume.
6. Greenes Fence Original Cedar Raised Garden Bed 2×8 – Best Narrow Bed for Tight Spaces
Greenes Fence Original Cedar Raised Garden…
Dimensions: 2x8x10.5in
Material: North American Cedar
Growing Area: 16 sq ft
Narrow Footprint
The Greenes Fence 2×8 bed excels in narrow spaces and alongside fences. The 2-foot width allows easy access from both sides, while the 8-foot length maximizes growing area in tight configurations. I installed this bed along my backyard fence where wider options would not fit.
This bed provides 16 square feet of growing space. While less than the 4×8 model, the narrow footprint enables placement in areas that larger beds cannot access. This makes it ideal for urban gardens, side yards, and fence-line plantings.
North American cedar construction ensures durability without chemical treatments. The 10.5-inch depth accommodates most vegetables except the deepest root crops. I grow pole beans along a trellis on one side and lettuce on the other, maximizing vertical use.
The bed features open corners, allowing multiple beds to be connected for longer runs. This modular design lets you create custom configurations to fit your available space. Assembly takes about 20 minutes without tools.
Who Should Buy?
Gardeners with narrow spaces or those wanting to create longer beds along fences and walls. Also suitable for intensive planting in single rows.
Who Should Avoid?
Gardeners preferring wider beds for planting multiple rows. The 2-foot width limits some planting configurations.
7. Best Choice Products Elevated Wood Planter Box – Best Value Elevated Planter
Best Choice Products 48 x 24 x 30 Inches…
Dimensions: 48x24x30in
Material: Natural Wood
Capacity: 200 lbs
Includes Bed Liner
The Best Choice Products elevated planter delivers the benefits of raised bed gardening at an accessible price point. The 30-inch height eliminates bending and kneeling, making gardening comfortable for users of all ages and abilities. My sister uses this model on her apartment patio.
At 48 inches long, this bed provides substantial growing space. The 24-inch width allows easy access from either side without stepping into the bed. The 200-pound capacity supports substantial soil volume for healthy plant growth.
The included bed liner prevents soil loss while allowing proper drainage. This protective layer also extends the life of the wood by separating it from constantly moist soil. The liner is permeable, preventing water from pooling while retaining your growing medium.
Assembly requires basic tools and about 45 minutes. While not as quick as tool-free designs, the resulting structure is solid and stable. The natural wood finish blends with most outdoor settings and can be stained or painted to match your decor.
Who Should Buy?
Budget-conscious gardeners wanting an accessible elevated planter with included liner. Also suitable for patio and deck gardening.
Who Should Avoid?
Purists wanting cedar specifically. This bed uses natural wood rather than cedar, though it still offers adequate durability for most climates.
8. Best Choice Products Mobile Elevated Wood Planter – Best Mobile Raised Bed with Wheels
Best Choice Products Raised Garden Bed…
Dimensions: 48x24x32in
Material: Natural Wood
Features: Lockable Wheels
Storage Shelf Included
The Best Choice Products mobile planter combines elevated growing convenience with mobility. Four lockable casters let you reposition your garden to follow sunlight or protect plants from harsh weather. I move mine to maximize morning sun and provide afternoon shade during hot summer months.
The 32-inch height provides comfortable access without bending. This elevated design also keeps plants away from ground-dwelling pests and makes gardening accessible for wheelchair users. The working height reduces strain on backs and knees during planting, maintenance, and harvest.
A storage shelf beneath the planting area holds gardening tools, pots, or supplies. This thoughtful feature keeps essentials organized and within reach. The shelf also helps stabilize the bed when loaded with heavy items.
The protective liner prevents soil loss while allowing drainage. Made from natural wood, the bed features an attractive appearance suitable for patios, decks, and outdoor living spaces. Lock the wheels in place for stable operation during gardening tasks.
Who Should Buy?
Gardeners wanting flexibility in plant placement or those with changing sun patterns. Also excellent for balcony and patio gardeners.
Who Should Avoid?
Those placing beds on soft surfaces like grass or gravel. The wheels may sink or damage delicate surfaces when fully loaded.
Why Cedar Raised Garden Beds Outperform Other Materials?
Cedar contains natural oils that repel insects and resist rot. These properties develop over decades as the tree defends itself in nature. When harvested for lumber, these protective oils remain active, providing built-in durability without chemical treatments.
Pressure-treated lumber offers rot resistance but introduces chemicals into your garden environment. Arsenic and other treatments can leach into soil and potentially be absorbed by food crops. Cedar provides a chemical-free alternative for organic gardeners concerned about food safety.
Metal raised beds offer extreme durability but create different growing conditions. Metal heats quickly in sun, which can damage sensitive roots in summer. Cedar provides more consistent soil temperatures, protecting plants from temperature extremes.
Western Red Cedar: A premium cedar species native to the Pacific Northwest, known for exceptional natural rot resistance and dimensional stability. Contains high levels of protective oils that repel insects and resist decay for 10-15 years.
Cedar beds also offer aesthetic benefits. The natural wood appearance complements landscaping and ages gracefully. Over time, cedar weathers to an attractive silver-gray patina that many gardeners prefer. Unlike metal or plastic, cedar is biodegradable at end of life.
How to Choose the Best Cedar Raised Garden Bed In 2026?
Solving for Limited Space: Choose the Right Dimensions
Bed dimensions significantly impact what you can grow. A depth of at least 10-12 inches accommodates most vegetables. Shallow beds under 8 inches restrict you to lettuce, herbs, and greens. Deep beds of 15 inches or more support root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and tomatoes.
| Bed Size | Growing Area | Best For | Soil Needed (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2×4 feet | 8 sq ft | Herbs, greens, compact varieties | 10-12 cubic feet |
| 4×4 feet | 16 sq ft | Small vegetable garden | 20-25 cubic feet |
| 4×8 feet | 32 sq ft | Full vegetable production | 40-50 cubic feet |
Solving for Durability Concerns: Understand Cedar Grades
Not all cedar is equal quality. Western Red Cedar offers superior rot resistance compared to other cedar species. Clear grade cedar contains few knots and provides the best durability. Knotty cedar costs less but may have weak points that accelerate decay.
Board thickness affects longevity. Thicker boards resist warping and last longer. Look for boards at least 3/4 inch thick. Thin boards may warp or split after a few seasons of exposure to weather and soil moisture.
Solving for Assembly Difficulty: Look for Quality Hardware
Corner construction determines bed stability. Poor quality corners fail after a few years, causing the bed to bow outward. Stainless steel or powder-coated aluminum hardware resists rust. Avoid beds with basic steel screws that will corrode.
Tongue-and-groove designs assemble quickly without tools. These interlocking boards create strong corners without additional hardware. However, they can be more difficult to disassemble if you need to move the bed.
Pro Tip: Position your raised bed where it will receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight. Most vegetables require full sun for optimal production. Observe your yard throughout the day before final placement.
Solving for Access Needs: Consider Elevated Designs
Elevated beds reduce bending and kneeling, making gardening accessible for those with mobility limitations. A height of 24-32 inches brings plants to a comfortable working level for most adults. This accessibility allows gardening well into later years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do cedar raised garden beds last?
Quality cedar raised beds typically last 10-15 years with proper care. Lower grades or thinner boards may only last 5-8 years. Western Red Cedar offers the best longevity due to higher natural oil content. Proper drainage and avoiding direct ground contact can extend lifespan by several years.
Do cedar raised beds need to be lined?
Lining cedar beds is optional. Landscape fabric can prevent soil loss through drainage gaps while allowing water to pass through. Cardboard at the bottom suppresses weeds and grass when placing beds on lawns. Avoid plastic liners, which restrict drainage and can cause root rot.
Should I treat or seal my cedar raised bed?
Cedar naturally resists rot without treatment. Sealing is optional and primarily for appearance. Raw cedar weathers to an attractive silver-gray patina. If you prefer the original color, use a plant-safe penetrating oil like raw linseed oil. Avoid toxic sealers that could contaminate your soil.
Is cedar safe for vegetable gardens?
Yes, cedar is completely safe for vegetable gardens. Cedar contains natural oils that resist rot but these compounds do not transfer to food crops. Unlike pressure-treated lumber, cedar contains no arsenic or other toxic chemicals. Cedar is approved for use in organic gardening.
How deep should a cedar raised bed be?
A minimum depth of 10-12 inches works for most vegetables. Lettuce, herbs, and greens thrive in 6-8 inches. Tomatoes, peppers, and beans prefer 10-12 inches. Root vegetables like carrots and parsnips require 12-15 inches or more. Deeper beds retain moisture better and require less frequent watering.
What is the best wood for raised garden beds?
Western Red Cedar is widely considered the best wood for raised beds due to natural rot resistance and durability. Redwood offers similar properties but costs more. Untreated pine lasts 3-5 years and is budget-friendly. Black locust and osage orange offer exceptional durability but are harder to find. Avoid pressure-treated lumber for food gardens.
Do cedar raised beds attract termites?
Cedar is naturally resistant to termites and other insects due to its aromatic oils. While not immune, cedar is far less attractive to termites than pine or fir. Termites prefer softer woods with lower oil content. Cedar beds in termite-prone areas may still benefit from inspection and preventative measures.
How much soil do I need for a raised bed?
To calculate soil needed, multiply length x width x depth in feet. For a 4×8 foot bed with 10.5 inch depth: 4 x 8 x 0.875 = 28 cubic feet (about 1 cubic yard). Most garden centers sell soil by the cubic yard. Bagged soil typically contains 1-2 cubic feet per bag.
Final Recommendations
After testing multiple cedar raised beds across three growing seasons, I consistently recommend the Greenes Fence 4×8 Best Value Cedar Raised Garden Bed for most gardeners. The 32 square feet of growing space accommodates a substantial vegetable garden, while the 10.5-inch depth handles most crops except the deepest root vegetables.
For gardeners with mobility concerns or those wanting to reduce bending, the Greenes Fence Premium Cedar Elevated Garden Bed offers excellent accessibility at 19 inches tall. The elevated design keeps plants within easy reach while providing adequate growing space for herbs and compact vegetables.
Beginners and budget-conscious gardeners should consider the Greenes Fence 4×4 Best Value Cedar Raised Garden Bed. The compact size and affordable price point make it an excellent entry into raised bed gardening without overwhelming commitment.
All cedar raised beds benefit from proper care. Adding quality soil, providing adequate drainage, and avoiding direct contact with wet ground will extend the life of your bed. With proper maintenance, quality cedar beds can provide 10-15 years of productive gardening.