Metal Raised Garden Beds vs. Wood Raised Beds

Growing plants in raised beds is one of the most common ways many gardeners, especially beginners, use it. Raised beds provide a modern gardening solution for yards and gardens with poor soil, stubborn weeds, or limited space. They're also good for patios, rooftop decks, and backyards.

But the big question remains: Should you plant your crops in metal raised garden beds or wooden raised beds? Each option has its perks, but the last decision is yours. In this post, we'll discuss the pros and cons of metal and wooden raised garden beds to help you make an informed decision. Let's dig in and find the perfect bed for your garden.

What are Raised Garden Beds

Raised garden beds are freestanding, enclosed plant boxes or containers constructed above ground level. They can be made in any size, shape, or material, like wood or metal, to fit in your garden.

These beds are perfect for growing vegetables, flowers, and fruits like strawberries or blueberries. If you love cooking, grow vegetables like leeks, potatoes, and herbs. If you enjoy fresh flowers, plant zinnias, sunflowers, or cosmos. You can also try new plants or mix them up each year with different themes, like a dye garden or a cocktail garden.

Raised garden beds have become a favorite among gardeners, and it's easy to see why. This modern gardening method improves soil quality, provides better drainage, keeps weeds under control, and deters pests. Plus, since the beds are raised off the ground, they reduce bending and make gardening easier for people with back or joint issues.

Beyond being practical, raised garden beds add structure and beauty to your garden all year round, even when nothing grows. Once you start growing crops in raised beds, you'll end up adding them in every season.

Metal Raised Beds Vs. Wood Raised Beds

Traditionally, raised garden beds were constructed from wood, stone, or brick. However, metal raised beds are a popular alternative for growing plants nowadays.

So, what is the better option: Metal Garden beds or wood garden beds? Let's compare the pros and cons of both raised garden beds to help you choose the best option for your garden.

What Are Metal-Raised Garden Beds?

Metal raised garden beds are typically made from galvanized steel, corrosion-resistant steel, or corrugated metal. Some beds have protective coatings of different metals, such as steel, Zinc, Aluminum, Magnesium, or powder coatings, to prevent rusting and corrosion.

Ready-made raised grow bed kits are an increasingly popular choice for beginner gardeners and small-scale projects. These kits come with pre-cut materials, stainless steel hardware, or stacking joints. Some kits even have helpful extras like irrigation systems and liners. They can simply be assembled and placed in the desired place. All you need to do is fill the beds with soil and plants, and you're good to go. You can grow your favorite vegetables, herbs, or flowers in them.

However, metal raised garden beds may not be the best choice for all gardeners, as they have advantages and disadvantages.

Pros and Cons of Metal Raised Garden Beds

Advantages of Metal Raised Garden Beds

Here are the main benefits of buying metal raised beds:

Durable: Metal beds, especially those made of heavy-duty ZAM-coated steel, are rust-proof and weather-resistant. They are perfect for outdoor use.

No bugs, No Rust: Unlike wooden beds, metal beds don't rot, warp, or get damaged by insects. They can last for many years without needing replacement.

No Contamination Risk: Galvanized steel is food-safe and doesn't release harmful chemicals in the soil. This feature is essential when growing veggies for your home kitchen.

Little or no maintenance: They need no painting, staining, or other upkeep.

Easy to assemble: Metal raised garden beds are quick and easy to set up. Many raised garden bed kits come pre-designed and are simple to assemble.

Heat Retention: Metal retains heat well, keeping the soil warmer.

Eco-friendly: Metal beds, such as steel, are made from 100% recycled metals, making them an eco-friendly choice for gardeners.

Built-in drainage system: One of the metal raised beds' top beneficial features is a built-in drainage system that keeps the soil moist and prevents soil from washing away.

Customizable Designs: Metal beds are available in different shapes (like U-shaped and round), colors, and heights. You can pick the one that fits your garden space.

Disadvantages of Metal Raised Garden Beds

Although the pros of metal beds outweigh their cons, there are still a few drawbacks you should consider:

Higher Upfront Cost: Metal beds are more expensive than wooden beds. A wooden raised bed of the same size may cost about one-third of high-quality metal beds. However, the durability and the long lifespan of metal beds often offset the initial investment.

Too Hot to Handle: Metal absorbs and retains heat. This feature is beneficial in colder climates, but metal can heat up too much in hot climates and stress out your plants.

Sharp Edges: Poorly made metal beds with thin steel might have sharp edges, which can pose a safety risk. Choose good-quality metal beds to avoid unpleasant moments.

Cool Down Too Fast: Unlike wood, metal cools down quickly at night, which makes the soil chilly for your plants.

Our Top Picks: Raised Garden Bed, Metal 17" High 78" x 24", Raised Garden Bed, Metal 32" High 42" Round, Raised Garden Bed, Metal 17" High 42" Round, Raised Garden Bed, Metal 17" High 96" x 24"

What are Wooden Raised Garden Beds

Wooden raised beds are often constructed from natural or treated wood, such as cedar, pine, redwood, or composite wood. Although all wood is susceptible to rot and decay, some types, like cedar and redwood, are more resistant and require less sealing or painting to prevent deterioration.

Pressure-treated wooden beds are an attractive and economical alternative to hardwoods like oak and will last many years. Untreated wood, like scaffold boards and recycled pallets, has a shorter life than treated wood but can be painted with a preservative to extend its lifespan. You can build DIY wooden beds for an affordable option or buy ready-made kits for easy assembly.

Wooden raised beds provide a warm, rustic appearance and are a go-to option for gardeners who prefer a natural look.

Pros and Cons of Wooden Raised Garden Beds

Advantages of Wooden Raised Garden Beds

Natural aesthetics: These raised beds have an aesthetic and natural feel that complements any garden style and space.

Affordable: Wooden beds, especially those made from untreated pine, are more affordable than metal beds. They usually cost less upfront. However, they need to be replaced more often, which can add up over time.

Good for Plants: Wooden beds provide excellent drainage, which helps prevent waterlogging and keep plants healthy.

Easy to build: Wood is simple to cut, shape, and assemble. It is good for making DIY garden beds. You can build beds in any size or shape to fit your garden perfectly. If you like a pre-made raised bed kit, the cost will be about the same.

Easy to Modify or Repair: Want to adjust the size or height? Grab some extra wood, stacking joints, nails, and a little effort—no special tools or skills are needed.

No Rust: Unlike metal beds, wooden ones don't rust, so you don't need to worry about harmful substances leaching into the soil.

Eco-Friendly Option: Wooden beds, made from untreated or sustainably sourced wood, are renewable and biodegradable.

Good Thermal Insulation: Wood provides natural insulation, protecting soil and plant roots from extreme temperature fluctuations.

Disadvantages of Wooden Raised Beds

Shorter Lifespan: Wood is susceptible to rot, warping, and pest damage over time, especially in wet climates. Even treated lumber may need replacement after a few years.

Requires Maintenance: Wooden beds may need to be stained, sealed, or treated to prolong their lifespan and protect them from moisture and pests.

Potential Environmental Concerns: Treated wood may contain chemicals that can leach into the soil. Untreated wood, while chemical-free, breaks down faster.

Heavy and Less Portable: Wooden beds can be cumbersome to move, especially when filled with soil.

Susceptible to Pests: Untreated wood may attract termites or other insects.

Increased Water Usage: Wooden beds may not retain moisture like their metal counterparts. They require frequent watering, which makes gardening less affordable and eco-friendly.

Choosing the Right Raised Garden Bed

Here are some factors a gardener should consider when looking for a garden bed.

Durability

• Metal Beds: They can last 10-20 years or more with minimal wear. The rust-resistant coatings further enhance their lifespan.
• Wooden Beds: These beds may last 5-15 years depend on the wood type. Cedar and redwood are more durable than untreated pine.

Cost

• Metal Beds: Higher upfront cost, starting from $100. But these beds need fewer replacements.
• Wooden Beds: Lower initial investment but may require frequent replacement.

Maintenance

• Metal Beds: Require almost no maintenance.
• Wooden Beds: Need regular sealing, staining, or protective treatments.

Environmental Impact

• Metal Beds: Made from recyclable materials but have a higher manufacturing carbon footprint.
• Wooden Beds: Sustainable if sourced responsibly but may require frequent harvesting of new wood for replacements.

Ease of Setup

• Metal Raised Beds: Often come in pre-assembled kits with stainless steel hardware for quick assembly.
• Wooden Raised Beds: Perfect for DIY, especially with tools like stacking joints.

Aesthetics

• Metal Beds: Sleek and modern, suitable for urban or industrial-themed gardens.
• Wooden Beds: Rustic and warm, perfect for traditional landscapes.

Bottom Line

If you want a low-maintenance, long-lasting gardening solution, metal raised garden beds are the winner. Their upfront cost may be a bit higher, but the good thing is they save money and effort in the long run without needing replacement. They're durable, easy to set up, and great for vegetables, flowers, and herbs. In short, metal raised beds are good for your garden, your wallet, and your back. Although wooden beds are affordable and charming, their shorter lifespan and higher maintenance needs make them less practical in the long run.

Ultimately, the final decision is yours! We hope this article has helped you choose the best material for your space and veggies!

FAQs

Is it Safe to Grow Vegetables in a Metal Raised Bed?

Yes, it's completely safe! Metal beds, whether galvanized, aluminum-coated, Zn-coated, steel, or weathered, are good for growing vegetables. Steel is a sustainable, recyclable material. In fact, Zn, Al, and Mg are natural soil nutrients that promote plant growth.

How Do I Water Raised Garden Beds?

Before you plant anything in your raised beds, consider how you'll water them. Of all irrigation options, drip irrigation is beneficial because it delivers water and nutrients directly to the root zone of each plant in the right amounts and at the right time. This will automatically water your garden and keep your plants healthy while you're away.

Ideally, plants need about an inch of water per week. Raised beds hold moisture better than regular garden soil, so you need to monitor the soil regularly. Stick your finger a few inches into the soil-it should feel slightly damp, like a wrung-out sponge.

How to Protect Raised Garden Beds?

Home gardeners can protect plants from extreme weather and pests by using row covers, plant protectors, or garden fabric. If you transplant seedlings, cover them after planting to give them time to establish roots.

Do Metal Raised Beds Get Too Hot?

The answer is no. On a warm day, the soil near the edges of the bed might get a little warmer, but not enough to harm your plants or affect their growth.