Raised beds are often made of wood and are therefore not only visually attractive, but also much cheaper and require less effort than having a stone raised bed. The disadvantage, however, is that the material is not particularly durable - even if you use the much more robust hardwoods, the bed will not last forever. However, good wood protection can increase the lifespan of the bed.
What materials should you use to paint a raised bed?
A raised bed should be painted with non-toxic agents such as linseed oil or beeswax glaze to increase its lifespan and prevent graying. Non-toxic toy paints are suitable for colorful designs. However, the inner protective film is indispensable.
Chemicals pass into the wood and the potting soil
Of course, many hobbyists and do-it-yourselfers quickly turn to wood-protecting glaze, varnish or paint for this purpose. However, this approach needs to be carefully considered, because normal wood protection (such as for the terrace) is not enough in the case of a raised bed. Non-toxic products should always be used here. The reason is very simple: the chemicals from the spread pass into the wood and from there into the potting soil - with the result that the same toxins migrate into the vegetables and ultimately into your stomach and that of your family.
Should you even paint a raised bed?
In principle, painting the raised bed - if you used hardwood to build it - is not necessary. Instead, the bed should be kept away from the moist soil, while rainwater should be able to dry quickly. However, regular treatment with wood-protecting paints or glazes can help the raised bed retain its beautiful color for longer - and also last longer. Many woods tend to turn gray over the years, which can be prevented by color treatment.
Never do without the foil
Many hobby gardeners come up with the idea of leaving out the protective film on the inside of the bed and simply painting the wood instead. However, this measure is not at all suitable for meaningful protection against moisture and thus rotting of the bed. If you want to paint, you can edit the outer border.
Which colors are best for painting the raised bed
You have many options here: linseed oil and beeswax glaze are particularly suitable for natural and non-toxic wood protection. Apply both to the raised bed every year on a dry, sunny day in spring and allow the glaze to dry thoroughly. If necessary, repeat the treatment.
Tip
If you would like to add color to your raised bed, it is best to use non-toxic and saliva-proof toy paints, such as those sold for painting self-made children's toys.