With a rustic beauty and simple elegance all its own, wood is always one of the most popular building materials for raised flower beds. It’s also one of the most affordable options, but not all species are suited for outdoor projects. If you’re renovating your garden, here are a few of the best types of wood to use in your garden.

What Are the Best Types of Wood for Flower Beds?

1. Redwood

Redwood is extremely dense and produces natural compounds that inhibit rot, making it an excellent, low-maintenance choice for outdoor installations like raised flower beds. While the upfront costs might be higher than other building materials, the 20-year life span of redwood makes it more than worthwhile in the long run.

2. Cedar

Like redwood, cedar produces natural oils and acids that repel moisture and prevent rot. Cedar also has an interesting grain pattern that makes for especially beautiful flower beds. With proper treatment, containers made from this species can last for decades in the garden.

3. Douglas Fir

Douglas fir is also resistant to rot and decay but will generally only last 10 to 15 years. However, it’s also more affordable than many other options and is abundantly available. This makes it an environmentally friendly building material for almost any home improvement project.

4. White Oak

While white oak may not have the aesthetic appeal of redwood or cedar, it's considerably less expensive while also being resistant to wear. Oak trees produce natural tannins that repel moisture and insects, making the wood resistant to harsh weather. White oak building materials typically don’t have any additives or preservatives, so you won’t have to worry about chemicals leaching into the soil.

5. Black Locust

Black locust has a level of decay resistance that equals redwood, and the species may be more abundant in some areas. This extremely durable wood has been used to create wooden roofs, shingles, and ship masts for centuries, and it can last 50 years or more. Like all long-lasting wood, locust does require a higher upfront investment, but many people find the longevity and minimal maintenance to be worth the cost.

If you’re rejuvenating your outdoor spaces, Huber Lumber has the high-quality building materials and selection you need. They’ve been serving homeowners, designers, and builders throughout the Greater Cincinnati, OH, area since 1903 and are committed to helping you find the perfect material for your next project. Visit their website for more on their wide range of building materials, follow their Facebook for updates and news, or call (513) 731-4035 to speak with an expert today.