For many years, wooden raised garden beds have been the traditional option. However, galvanized raised garden beds have become increasingly popular in recent years. Each option has its own set of benefits.
Galvanized raised garden beds offer a sleek, modern look to any garden. Their durability far exceeds that of rot-resistant wood varieties, such as cedar. Not only will they last much longer, but they can be placed in any location that receives six to eight hours of sunlight each day. This makes them ideal for smaller gardens or areas with limited space.
The Benefits of Using Galvanized Steel
When it comes to your garden, you want to make sure that you choose the right materials for the beds. There are many different options out there like wood, plastic, etc. But, steel garden beds are a great choice for many reasons.
Here are some reasons to help you decide if steel is the right material for your garden beds:
Galvanized steel is an excellent choice for outdoor use due to its resistance to corrosion. With proper care, galvanized beds can last for 20 years or more without needing replacement. This makes galvanized steel a very low-maintenance option for your outdoor needs.
When it comes to durability and rot resistance, galvanized raised garden beds are in a class of their own. Wood beds may eventually succumb to rot and degradation, but a galvanized steel bed will last for years without any issues. This makes them ideal for anyone who wants a low-maintenance raised bed solution.
Galvanized raised garden beds often come in taller versions than their wooden counterparts. Taller beds around waist height make it easier to reach the center of the bed for planting, weeding, and mulching—no more bending over and straining your back!
However, while galvanized raised garden beds have numerous advantages, there are some cost considerations to take into account.
Upfront cost: galvanized raised garden beds are typically more expensive than wooden beds. But, they often last longer and require less maintenance, so it is a more cost-effective option in the long run.
In acidic soil, the zinc coating of galvanized raised garden beds will deteriorate gradually. The acidity will erode the zinc coating over time, causing the bed to rust. If you are planning on using the bed for acid-loving plants, like blueberries, it is best to line it with plastic first. This will help protect the steel and extend the life of the bed.
Galvanized steel is less likely to provide adequate insulation for the soil. The plants will probably struggle in cold weather. Steel can heat up quickly in the sun, which can harm delicate plants.
Galvanized raised garden beds can be challenging to find, as there are few suppliers who carry them. If you are set on using galvanized steel for your raised beds, be prepared to do extra legwork to find the top-quality material.
The Soil Mix for Galvanized Raised Garden Beds
If you want to add soil to a galvanized raised bed, you can use the same soil mix for a raised bed made from wood. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, you will need a lot of soil because of the depth of the bed. This can be expensive, so be sure to factor that into your budget.
Second, the raised beds can become very hot in direct sunlight, making it difficult to grow some heat-sensitive plants.
Finally, you will need to be careful not to damage the galvanized coating on the bed. If the coating is damaged, it can lead to rusting.
How Safe Is Galvanized Steel For Growing Food?
While galvanized steel containers are often used in gardens, it is important to check the integrity of the containers on a regular basis. This is because the zinc coating on galvanized steel can break down over time, potentially affecting the plants in the garden.
Zinc is an essential plant micronutrient and a normal part of our soil. However, if the zinc coating on a galvanized steel container breaks down, it can release zinc into the soil. This can potentially impact plant growth. Therefore, it is important to regularly check containers for signs of wear and tear. If necessary, replace them to ensure that your plants are getting the nutrients they need.
Top 4 Galvanized Raised Garden Beds on the Market
If you are looking for a top-quality raised garden bed made from galvanized steel, we highly recommend one of the following four options. All of these beds are durable, long-lasting, and easy to set up, making them ideal for a beginner or experienced gardener.
1. BEST GALVANIZED PLANTER: 9 in 1 Adjustable Galvanized Metal Raised Garden Bed
If you are looking for a versatile and easy-to-use garden bed, look no further than this 9-In-1 planter box. This kit provides 9 different configurations to choose from, so you can easily assemble your favorite shape based on your need. The large size provides ample growing space for vegetables, herbs, flowers, and plants. Plus, it is easy to set up and take down, so you can use it repeatedly.
Pros:
- Galvanized steel garden beds are highly durable and can withstand any climate conditions
- You can grow food safely and with confidence as the eco-friendly coating does not contaminate the soil
- You can take it with you wherever you want because it is easy to assemble and disassemble
- This metal raised garden bed is bottomless by design which allows the roots of plants to extend freely and the excess moisture to easily drain away
Cons:
- It takes time to fill with soil
- Ideal for larger gardening projects
A lot of buyers are happy and satisfied with this galvanized planter. “This garden bed was a great purchase,” says a buyer. “Home improvement stores just can’t compete with regard to quality, affordability, and coverage.”
But, it is important to note that, because this is a raised bed, it will need more soil than a traditional garden. “It needs a lot of soil,” according to one buyer. For this reason, it is recommended for gardeners with larger gardening projects.
9-In-1 refers to 9 different configurations(or shapes)available in 1 kit. You can assemble your favorite shape based on your need. Pick your favorite one and then assemble your garden bed. This large flower planter box provides ample growing space to raise vegetables, herbs, flowers, and plants. 2 FT depth gives enough capacity to hold soil.
2. PLANTER WITH THE BEST DESIGN: KING BIRD Galvanized Raised Garden Bed
It is a raised garden bed with double card frames that is not only more durable but also more stable. It will not deform or collapse easily. It also has a more appealing design than other planters on the market.
The steel is coated with a layer of zinc, which efficiently prevents rust and corrosion. It has a beautiful finish that will never fade or discolor. But there is no painting inside, so there is no risk of plant damage.
PROS:
- Extra thick 2-ply conditioning that makes it less likely to warp or break over time
- Multilayer galvanized coating for efficient rust prevention
- Vertical striped design that can help support the soil and make the raised bed more textured and attractive
- Customers can purchase with confidence knowing that their investment is protected by a two-year warranty
CON:
- It can be a tricky assembly for this planter
Buyers love this King Bird planter, and we think you will too! “It was hard to decide what raised bed to get,” writes a buyer. “I am happy I chose this. Definitely getting a 2nd in the spring and hopefully a greenhouse that will fit the 2 beds with room to walk through the middle.”
Some people have complained about the assembly process for the product, but there is a helpful YouTube video available that makes the process easier to understand. “I watched the YouTube video before I tried to assemble my kit,” advises a buyer. “This was extremely helpful.”
We combine the vertical stripe and the cardholder design to improve the ability of galvanized raised garden beds in bearing the soil and make the raised bed more textured and beautiful. This can prolong the service time of the raised bed.
3. BEST DECOR PLANTER: Sunnydaze Hexagon Galvanized Raised Garden Bed
Galvanized steel is a material that can withstand harsh weather conditions and is more stable than wood or plastic beds. This makes it an ideal choice for outdoor furniture, especially in areas where the weather can be unpredictable.
By creating this kind of raised bed, you are able to control the quality of the soil, drainage, and aeration, which all play a role in plant health.
And not to forget how adorable it is, with a hexagon shape design that will surely catch the attention of your neighbors!
PROS:
- It is ideal for outdoor placement because it is made from a weather-resistant material
- All the hardware and tools needed to assemble the frame are included
- It is backed with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty for worry-free purchasing
CON:
- Assembling metal components can sometimes be difficult due to tension in the metal
“All Spring my neighbors have been raving about these planters,” comments a buyer. “I have a total of five and they’re such a neat addition. I get asked all the time where I got them!” For those looking to add a little something extra to their home décor, these galvanized raised garden beds are a great option. Not only do they look great, but they are also conversation starters.
But, it is important to be careful when handling metal during its assembly, as too much force can damage the components. If you are having difficulty assembling metal components, it is best to seek assistance from a professional. “Pro tip: the last section is hard to assemble because the rest of the unit is fighting against you,” says a buyer. “So get a screwdriver or an Allen wrench roughly the size of the holes drilled in metal. Place that through them to align the various pieces, then use channel locks and or C-clamp pieces together.”
Optimal outdoor placement: Elevated gardening box is 40 inches long (from corner to corner) x 36 inches wide (from straight edge to straight edge) x 16 inches tall, and weighs 18 pounds; the side panel is 0.5mm thick; the corner panel is 1mm thick; Perfect size to place in the backyard, patio, or on the deck.
4. BEST-PRICED PLANTER: DIIYIV Galvanized Raised Garden Bed
This metal raised garden bed is durable and stable, perfect for long-term use. The corner and frame are reinforced for extra strength. Its bottomless frame, provides a good drainage effect and makes the soil more permeable, protecting plant roots, and promoting healthier growth. And its soil protection coating is important for both the health of the environment and the plants themselves.
PROS:
- Its bottomless frame allows for more root growth and drainage and provides the benefits of a raised garden bed
- It can be easily assembled without any additional tools which makes it a great option for those who want to get their garden started quickly and easily
CON:
- Includes the stabilization bars in the middle which can be unappealing to some hobbyists.
The workmanship can be very impressive. This is a great planter. “I just have to say “wow”, says a buyer. “The quality of materials and metal thickness is great.”
But, the stabilization bars can be an unnecessary feature for you too. “Not a big fan of the stabilization bars in the middle — I’d prefer a full division between the two sections — but that’s a minor gripe, explains a buyer. “Overall, it’s good for the price.”
- Durable: Raised garden beds made of metal, corners,s and frames are reinforced, more stable, and durable, and can be used for a long time.
- Bottomless Frame: Provide a good drainage effect, and make the soil more permeable to protect the plant root, so the plants would grow better.
Closing Thoughts
Ultimately, the best material for raised garden beds depends on your specific needs and preferences. So before making a decision, finalize the type of plants you want to grow, your climate, and your budget.
And if you will choose a galvanized raised garden bed, also consider its pros and cons. When it comes to raised garden beds, there is no one-size-fits-all answer for the best material to use. But our tips and advice will all surely help!
