Nurturing a Generation of Conservationists
Published on July 10, 2015
Written by Susannah Shmurak
In the world of gardening, natural cedar raised garden beds have become a popular choice for their numerous benefits. These beds offer durability, pest resistance, aesthetic appeal, and chemical-free construction, making them an excellent choice for growing vegetables and flowers.
Durability is one of the key advantages of cedar raised garden beds. The wood's natural oils make it resistant to rot and decay, significantly extending its lifespan compared to other woods like pine. This means that with proper care, a cedar raised bed can serve gardeners for many seasons to come.
Cedar's natural oils also help repel pests, reducing the need for additional pest control measures. This makes cedar raised beds an eco-friendly choice for gardeners who prefer to keep their gardens as chemical-free as possible.
The aesthetic appeal of cedar is another reason for its popularity. As cedar ages, it gradually fades to a gray colour, which can add a visually appealing element to any garden. Unlike some other woods, cedar does not require preservatives, making it a safer choice for growing vegetables.
To maximize the use of natural cedar raised garden beds, gardeners should follow some best practices. Selecting the right location is crucial. Choose a location that receives adequate sunlight for the types of plants you are growing and ensure the area drains well to prevent waterlogging.
Soil preparation is another important factor. Take advantage of the control raised beds offer by creating a customized soil mix that suits your plants' needs. Incorporate compost to improve soil fertility and structure.
Assembly and maintenance are also essential. Use rust-proof steel rods or screws to assemble the raised bed for durability and ease of disassembly. Consider applying a natural stain or sealant like Eco Wood Treatment to enhance the cedar's resistance to moisture and decay.
To make your raised bed more accessible, design it for comfort. Ensure the height is comfortable for frequent use. Consider adding a greenhouse cover for year-round growing and protection from pests and harsh weather.
In addition to the benefits of natural cedar raised garden beds, there are several other products mentioned in the article. The Worm Factory 360 Composter, Jora JK270 Composter with a capacity of 9.5 Cubic Feet, and a Stainless Steel Compost Keeper are all featured. The VegTrug Raised Garden Planter, made of natural wood, and a Premium Drinking Water Safe Garden Hose - Slim 7/16" are also mentioned. Wildflower Farms Eco-Lawn Grass Seed is available in a 5 lb package. The Farmstead Raised Garden Bed is another product made of natural cedar.
By following these best practices and leveraging the natural benefits of cedar, gardeners can create a thriving and sustainable garden environment.
The incorporation of natural cedar raised garden beds into a family's home-and-garden lifestyle offers not only a durable and pest-resistant option for planting vegetables and flowers, but also enhances the aesthetics of the garden. With proper care and location choices, these beds can serve as a long-term aspect of the family's lifestyle, adding a natural and visually pleasing element to their activities. Moreover, additional eco-friendly products such as the Worm Factory 360 Composter, Jora JK270 Composter, Stainless Steel Compost Keeper, VegTrug Raised Garden Planter, and a Premium Drinking Water Safe Garden Hose can help further improve the sustainability of a home-and-garden lifestyle.
