How to Look After Your Wooden Raised Bed

Wooden raised beds are a brilliant way to grow your own vegetables, herbs, and flowers. They not only look great in any garden, but they also make planting and maintenance easier. But to keep them in top condition year after year, a little care goes a long way.

Here’s how to look after your wooden raised bed so it stays strong, tidy, and productive:

1. Choose Treated Timber

If you’re buying a raised bed kit, make sure it’s made from pressure-treated wood—like the chunky sleeper kits we sell here at DIY Fence UK. This treatment helps protect against rot, moisture, and pests from the start.

2. Line the Inside

Lining the inside of your bed with a landscape fabric or membrane helps prevent damp soil from sitting directly against the timber. It reduces rot and adds a layer of protection, especially at the corners where water can collect.

3. Oil or Stain It (Optional)

Although pressure-treated timber lasts well on its own, applying a garden-safe wood oil or stain can give it extra weather protection and keep the wood looking fresh. Just make sure the product is non-toxic and safe for veg-growing.

4. Watch for Water Build-Up

Raised beds need good drainage. Make sure your soil mix drains well, and avoid overwatering. Waterlogged soil not only harms plants, it can also put extra strain on the wood.

5. Weed and Refresh the Soil

Give your raised bed a quick tidy-up at the end of each season. Remove weeds, refresh the topsoil with compost, and check the timber for any signs of wear. If anything looks loose or soft, it might be time to tighten screws or replace a board.

6. Cover in Winter

If you’re not using the bed in winter, consider covering it with a tarpaulin or weed membrane to keep out excess moisture and prevent the soil from leaching nutrients.

Final Tip: Invest in Quality

Well-made wooden raised beds—especially chunky sleepers—can last for many years with just minimal upkeep. Buying quality from the start makes all the difference.