Review of the Best Choice Products 8x2ft Outdoor Wooden Raised Garden Bed Planter
Gardening has become a popular hobby for many, especially as people seek to grow their own vegetables, fruits, and flowers right in their backyards. Among the numerous options available, the Best Choice Products 8x2ft Outdoor Wooden Raised Garden Bed Planter stands out as a commendable choice. Made from weather-resistant Chinese fir wood, this product combines durability, aesthetic appeal, and practicality.
Product Overview
Specifications
- Material: Fir Wood
- Color: Gray
- Special Feature: Weather Resistant
- Dimensions: 96″D x 24″W x 10″H
- Capacity: 13.3 Cubic Feet
- Weight: 20 Pounds
- Mounting Type: Floor Standing
- Included Components: Liner
- Country of Origin: China
- Manufacturer: Best Choice Products
Design and Aesthetic
The gray finish of this raised garden bed complements a variety of outdoor spaces, making it an excellent decorative accessory for any garden or yard. Its rectangular shape and Chinese style add to its charm, providing a rustic yet refined look that can enhance both modern and traditional gardens.
Assembly Process
One of the most highlighted features of this product is its easy assembly. Many users report being able to put it together in approximately 10-15 minutes. The panels are pre-sanded with dovetail joints that slide together effortlessly, locking in place with screw-fastened posts. This thoughtful design allows even novices to set it up without any specialized tools or skills. While some users noted that a mallet was needed to fit some corners tightly, the overall consensus is that assembly is straightforward.
Durability and Materials
Constructed from natural Chinese fir wood, this garden bed is designed to withstand various weather conditions without discoloration or deterioration. However, several reviews point out that while the wood is not overly thick, it strikes a balance between being sturdy and lightweight. Users have expressed concerns about the long-term durability of the wood, particularly regarding the joiners. Some reported issues with cracked joiners, which could impact the overall structure over time. Reinforcement with corner brackets was suggested by several users as a precautionary measure to enhance stability.
Functionality
The 8-foot length and 2-foot width provide ample space for a variety of plants, making it suitable for vegetables, fruits, and flowers. Its included liner helps to keep the soil separate from the wood, preserving its integrity over time. The middle divider offers the flexibility to grow different types of plants in one bed, promoting organization and variety in your garden.
User Experiences
- First-Time Gardener: One user shared their experience assembling the bed with their fiancée, stating that it was easy, took about 15 minutes, and looked great in their yard. They noted that their only critique was the size of the mesh at the bottom.
- Quality vs. Value: Another reviewer highlighted that while the quality was expected for the price, they found some joiners cracked. Despite this, they appreciated the fresh smell of the wood and its weather-resistant claims.
- Stability Concerns: A user with multiple units pointed out that the corners may need reinforcing to accommodate shifting soil due to freezing temperatures.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Several reviewers praised the attractive appearance of the planter and how well it fits into their garden layout.
- Assembly Issues: Some users reported difficulties with dovetail channels being asymmetric, causing challenges during assembly. They mentioned having to sand off excess stain to ensure proper fit.
Conclusion
The Best Choice Products 8x2ft Outdoor Wooden Raised Garden Bed Planter is a solid choice for both novice and experienced gardeners seeking an attractive and functional addition to their outdoor space. Its easy assembly, ample space, and weather-resistant materials make it a practical solution for growing a variety of plants.
While there are concerns regarding the durability and quality control of some components, particularly the joiners, the overall value for the price is commendable. With some minor adjustments, such as reinforcing the corners, this raised garden bed can provide a long-lasting gardening solution.
Overall, we would rate this product 4 out of 5 stars. It is a great investment for hobby gardeners, especially considering its aesthetics and functionality, but potential buyers should be prepared to address some of the durability concerns highlighted in various reviews.
Brian Hay –
These were simple to put together; I just needed a mallet for two of the corners. The quality meets my expectations. Excellent value compared to other raised beds that cost twice as much.
Lisa W. –
As others have mentioned, the wood panels are quite lightweight and feel a bit flimsy. I’m concerned that it may only last a season. If that’s the case, I’ll update my review in a year or two.
On a positive note, it’s appealing and serves its purpose well. I didn’t encounter any issues during assembly, contrary to what some have reported. If the dovetail joints are too tight, just try pairing them with a different panel. Gently tap the bottom of the posts to slide them down the panels while keeping everything aligned. With a little patience and care, it will fit together. Just keep in mind that the structure relies solely on the dovetail joints, so lifting it could cause it to collapse. I didn’t attempt to move it; I assembled it right where I wanted it.
Jenna S. –
This wooden planter looks great once assembled, but the assembly process can be quite frustrating due to quality control issues during manufacturing. Here are the main problems I encountered:
After sanding down the tabs to remove the excess stain and some material, I was able to fit the boards into the channels—some slid in easily, while others needed a bit of tap from a rubber mallet. The 9/16-inch thick boards are quite narrow at the base of the dovetail tabs, so be gentle when sanding or hammering, as they can break easily.
Once fully assembled, the planter is sturdy and attractive. I’m unsure how well the boards will withstand the pressure of soil over time, but the kit does include a 2×8 sheet of weed barrier to prevent weeds from growing through the open bottom.
Despite the assembly challenges, this planter is a good value for a real wood raised bed, especially considering the price on Amazon compared to store-bought materials.
JulieR –
I was looking for basic raised boxes for planting around my perimeter fence, and these turned out to be great additions that allow for some creativity and expansion. They have a clean, fresh scent and are advertised as weather-resistant. Assembly was straightforward, and they look nice overall. While the wood isn’t particularly thick or sturdy, it isn’t flimsy either. However, I noticed several joiners had cracks running from top to bottom, so I hope they last beyond just one season. I appreciate the “finished” look with smoothed edges and toppers. Each section was longer than I anticipated, fitting perfectly between each fence post. Considering the price, it’s a good value. Unfortunately, the cracked joints indicate a quality control issue; otherwise, I would have easily given it five stars. They look good, and I would definitely consider buying more.
Casey –
My fiancée and I are starting a raised bed garden together for the first time, and she chose this one. It was an excellent choice! We assembled it in around 15 minutes, though we could have done it in about 10. It looks fantastic in our yard and feels very sturdy. If I had to mention one downside, it would be that I wish the mesh at the bottom was a bit larger. Overall, this is a wonderful addition to our garden!
JulieR –
Assembly is straightforward, and the wood holds up well over time. However, the corners could use some reinforcement. With four sets, I’ve noticed that gravity and freezing temperatures can cause the dirt to shift and expand, pushing one end out. Eventually, the corners become smooth and can’t lock back into place. I recommend using corner brackets. It takes some time and effort, but it’s worth it. Overall, these are great products.
David Martin –
Liner is not included in the package.
Jenna S. –
I really enjoyed this product.
Ratcliffewofford –
After contemplating for some time, I finally took the plunge and purchased a garden bed. Unsure of where to begin, I turned to the reviews and ultimately chose this one. I’m incredibly pleased with my decision. Assembly was straightforward, and it even included a liner for the bottom. It’s visually appealing and meets our needs perfectly. Though it does need about 2-3 bags of soil on each side, I’m looking forward to using it for many years ahead!
Applewood –
Beautiful gardening box, incredibly easy to assemble, and the boards have an excellent finish. It comes with a black cloth that you can choose to add or not at the bottom of the structure.
Applewood –
Perfect for a hobby garden. A bit pricey for its size, but assembly is a breeze and it has a sleek appearance!