Crafting a perfect garden is more than just choosing perennials and annuals; it is also about the finer details. Garden edging, an often overlooked detail, is immensely impactful, defines your bed’s boundaries, and enhances overall aesthetics. Among the many edging options, wood is a fine choice; it stands out for its natural beauty, versatility, and functionality.
In the next sections, we explore the 4 best types of wood edging for a picturesque outdoor haven.
Table of Contents
Best Wood for Garden Edging
1) Pressure-Treated Yellow Pine
- Originates in the southern United States
- Economical
- Chemically treated for high resistance to rot and insects
- Offered in many sizes, including 6×6 and larger timbers
- Holds stains and sealers well but is not suitable for painting
- Widely available Moderately heavy, durable; needs finish for the best look
2) Western Red Cedar
- Originates in Canada.
- U.S. Pacific Northwest
- More expensive than yellow pine but still fairly affordable
- Characterized by a striking red hue
- Good natural resistance to rot and insects
- Offered in many sizes, including 6×6 timbers
- Excellent for stains, sealers, and most paints
- Nationwide in-stock availability
- Lightweight, but dents and burns easily
3) Redwood
- Originates in California, Oregon
- More expensive than pine or cedar
- Heartwood has good natural resistance to rot and insects
- Offered in limited sizes
- Excellent for stains, sealers, and most paints
- Mostly West Coast availability, some environmental issues
- Lightweight, but dents easily, good fire resistance
4) Ipe
- Originates in Brazil (pronounced EE-pay)
- Fairly expensive
- Excellent resistance to rot, insects, and fire
- Offered in limited sizes; used mainly for decks
- Finish with clear sealers or penetrating oils
- Limited availability
- Very heavy and durable, but hard to work
