Hello,

1. No preference to cedar over redwood, in my opinion. Use what you like.
2. Sealing is a good idea to prevent rot.
3. Don't use the gravel -- not necessary, since raising the bed in itself
provides the required drainage.

HTH,
-- pelirojaroja
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"There is a garden in every childhood,
an enchanted place where colors are brighter,
the air softer, and the morning more fragrant
than ever again."

-- Elizabeth Lawrence


"Sanford Levy" wrote in message
...
Hi, hope someone can help. I am going to make some raised garden beds.
I did a search on this group and did not get any hits. I have three
questions I hope someone can help me with. First, is there any reason
to prefer cedar over redwood? I notice that most commercial wooden
raised beds are cedar. Second, is it necessary or helpful to seal the
wood somehow, particularly the ends? Third, is it necessary or helpful
to lay down a few inches of gravel on the bottom for drainage? Some
things I have read say yes, but others seem to say you should not so
that plants with deep roots can get down to the native soil if they need
to. Thanks in advance for your advice! Sanford.