Always protect wood from moisture
wood for example, it is extremely sensitive to moisture and begins to rot quickly as soon as moisture has set in it. However, chemical wood protection for prevention is not a good idea, especially for a vegetable raised bed - the one in it The toxins contained would pass into the crops and their fruits and thus be eaten by you. However, it is better to use these measures:
- Always cover the inside of a wooden raised bed with Knob or partial film.
- Build the raised bed walls at a slight angle and the slats overlapping.
- This allows rainwater to run off faster - and snails do not get into the bed.
- Make the raised bed not straight to earth - the wood soaks up moisture from the earth.
- Place the corner posts or Better to edge on paving stones or the like. ä.
- Alternatively, you can set the corner posts in concrete.
- The upper edges should also be beveled slightly so that rainwater can run off.
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Choosing the right type of wood
Choosing the right type of wood can also increase the lifespan of the raised bed considerably. Hardwoods such as oak, Douglas fir, larch etc. are extremely robust and also have the useful property of absorbing little moisture from the environment.
Stone raised beds: dry stone wall or mortar wall?
Stone raised beds basically consist of a very robust and durable material. However, careful construction is required here so that you can really enjoy your mini garden for a long time. For example, stone walls can be erected in dry construction (i.e. without connecting mortar) or in the form of a mortar wall. With the latter in particular, it is important that you do not leave any gaps in the mortar or in the stones used: This is where moisture can penetrate, which can freeze during the cold season and thus gradually destroy the stone.
Tips
No raised bed, however stably constructed, will last long if the subsoil is not right. A good, solid one foundation is the basis of every long-lasting raised bed. For wooden raised beds, solid, level (and possibly gravel) substrates are usually sufficient - stone raised beds, on the other hand, often require a concrete foundation.
