Softwood or hardwood? These are the differences
A basic distinction is made between softwood and hardwood, whereby the former are usually conifers and the latter are deciduous trees - exceptions, of course, confirm this rule, because types of wood such as linden, poplar or willow also belong to the softwoods. On the other hand, there are also comparatively hard coniferous woods, of which the European larch is a very good example. The main difference is the density of the wood in question - the lighter it is, the lower its density and the softer it is. A type of wood belongs to the softwood group if its kiln density (ie the density of dried wood) is less than 0.55 grams per cubic centimeter.
also read
- Which wood is suitable for the garden house?
- Which wood is suitable for a sandpit?
- Which surface is suitable for the raised bed?
Which is why hardwoods are better suited for raised beds
Soft types of wood are mainly used for interiors as well as for the construction of furniture and instruments. With a few exceptions, they are not suitable for building raised beds. Softwood is cheap and easy to process, but also not very durable and rots quickly under unfavorable conditions. Since raised beds are constantly exposed to high levels of moisture, a frame made of soft wood decomposes within a very short time. However, you will enjoy a model made from hardwood for much longer. These types of wood are much more robust and durable, albeit more expensive. However, the purchase price pays for itself quickly due to the longer shelf life.
The best types of wood for raised beds
The best types of wood for a stable and robust raised bed are mainly these:
larch
Siberian larch, which is significantly more robust and durable compared to its European relatives, is mainly sold in the trade.
Douglas fir
Douglas fir also belongs to the comparatively hard coniferous woods (even if it is usually counted among the soft types of wood), is robust and easy to process. Direct contact with the ground should be avoided at all costs, which is why the use of foils is essential.
Black locust
This is a deciduous tree that is even harder and more robust than our European oak. Excellent for outdoors and therefore suitable for the construction of raised beds!
Oak
The white oak in particular is comparatively resistant to liquids and is therefore used for the construction of liquid containers. It is also very suitable for building raised beds, but it is quite expensive.
Tips
You can improve the durability of the wood used by lining it with foil on the inside and painting it on the outside with a non-toxic protective glaze.
