Description
The Elevated Cedar Planter Box made by Gardener’s Supply is a raised bed garden box that is further elevated using aluminum legs. It is available in many sizes to provide different looks, and to fit different spaces or needs. These boxes are made in the U.S. of high quality cedar wood and heavy-duty rust-proof aluminum.
Name: Raised Garden Bed Elevated Cedar Planter Box
Website: Gardener’s Supply Store
Price: $185 – $345
How Elevated Boxes Work
MY EXPERIENCE
Gardner’s Supply Elevated Boxes come packaged well in a strong cardboard package for shipping. After opening the box, you will find high-quality cedar boards, strong corner pieces that also serve as the legs, and screws. There are also little protective safety caps for the sharp edges of the aluminum corners. I did not find these boxes difficult to assemble at all, but I did have a few hiccups with screw holes being slightly off/not lining up and a couple stripping a little. Considering the fact that I assembled three of these planter boxes with many screws, that ratio did not bother me. These boxes are very sturdy once assembled. It was very easy to move my boxes around, especially before adding the soil. I moved three 2×4 boxes into my side yard after assembling them in the garage. These boxes can be moved with soil using two strong people. Someone older or with injuries would have to have help from others. But typically, it doesn’t seem there would be much need to move the boxes once a location has been chosen for the season.
Once outside, I (optionally) chose to coat my boards with an organic-garden-friendly oil. I chose to spray it on rather than use a paint brush, but either works just fine. Keep in mind, this step is not required, as the cedar wood may be used without it. Once this step was completed, I placed the fabric liner inside and added my soil and plants.
This entire process was not difficult and did not take any longer than I would have expected. I was happy about my new planters and getting my boxes growing, so it was pleasant work. Pretty soon I had tomatoes, cucumbers, squash, peppers, potatoes, and herbs growing! These boxes would also be beautiful planters to use for a flower bed.
Pros
- Quick assembly
- Boxes are sturdy when assembled
- High quality and beautiful boxes are made in the U.S.
- Garden location can be changed
- All the benefits of raised beds
- Elevated height eliminates stooping, bending, reaching, and kneeling
- Great for elderly or anyone with back or knee problems, or who wants to avoid bending down
- Can be disassembled
- Available in many sizes
Cons
- Screws could be stronger, in my opinion
- Moving can be difficult with soil in them
- Price might deter some people
Pricing
At the time of writing this review, the prices are as follows:
2×2 Box – $185
2X4 Box – $249
2×8 Box – $339
4×4 Box – $345
Conclusion
In my opinion, the Raised Garden Bed Elevated Cedar Planter Boxes made by Gardener’s Supply are of high quality, are very attractive, relatively easy to assemble and move, and are easy to garden in. I purchased three of the 2×4 boxes, assembled them in the garage, carried them outside with the help of my young son, and planted with ease. I chose elevated planters because they made it easy for me to do gardening even with a baby in a carrier on my back. Many people have other reasons for not wanting to, or being able to, bend over, which makes this planter a good idea for many people. It seems to me that gardening without bending, kneeling, or stooping would be desired by nearly everyone.
I like that these are made in the U.S. and not shipped from overseas.
For those who do Squre Foot Gardening, these are perfect. The dimensions of these and the fact that they are raised make them a great shortcut for SFG. Of course, you can perfectly control the growing medium you use when you use boxes.
I love that these boxes are natural, made without chemicals, and support organic gardening. I chose to treat the wood with a Cedar Garden Bed Oil, but it is not necessary.
Although these are a little pricey, nearly everything is these days and they seem worth it to me. I would buy them again. These make a great gift for an aging parent or friend, in my opinion, or perhaps your wife or friend who is gardening with a baby on her back. Just saying…
What do you think?
Are these elevated boxes something that you would use in your garden? Why or why not? Do you know someone who might benefit from being able to garden in an elevated box who otherwise would not be able to garden as easily? Please share this review and comment below. I’d love to hear from you!
