Best Material For Raised Bed Planter

Question From: MICHIGAN
Q: Thank you for your article on raised gardens. Please advise on purchasing raised planter for my grandsons. Which is better material- cedar or a composite or vinyl? Should planter be lined with a plastic to prevent wood rott-(if wood). What soil combination is best to use.? I look forward to reading Mel Bartholomew’s book. Thank you.

A: Check out the Gardeners Supply website. They have the best selection of containers. Size and height depends on the size of the kids and remember they will grow. use Also check out Mel's website as to choice of materials. We used treated wood lined with plastic and they lasted for ten years. I used a version Mels magic mix but choose to buy the best quality products I could find. If you can find worm castings, I'd add them also. I choose not to use animal manure based compost. Don't cheese out on the soilless mix. Good Luck.