What wood for a bedding area?

[Spunky]

First of I'd just like to say hi and give you an idea of the project I have in the garden.

We are having a flower bed around the perimeter of the garden, raised about 32" and another in front of this one raised by 16".

There are 180 meters of wood needed if using 8"x3" for this project. My question is, can I make these using 8x2 inch timber, and lined with some plastic sheet to prolong the life of the timber.

The costs saving between 8x3 and 8x2 is about £300..

Would it be strong enough? What plastic lining would you recommend?

I appreciate your help and any other advice you have.

Many thanks

[Brooklyn1]

I don't think plastic lining will extend the life of the timbers, may even shorten it by encouraging condensation and preventing evaporation. I used real used RR ties for a raised bed garden. they'll last at least 20 years, most will last twice that long and it's easy to replace those that rot. Used 10" X 12" RR ties 10' long cost about $12 each at my local lumber yard... they are not very pretty but they are very long lasting... they weigh about 250 pounds each so you'll need a strong helper. Of course there are several materials one can choose besides lumber... around here many people build raised beds with ornamental concrete landscaping blocks... they cost a bit more than lumber but are easy to work with and will last longer than you.

[Spunky]

Thanks for the responses. The amount of soil will be around 32" deep and

16" wide. Should I use 8x3, or reduce bed depth?

I will avoid the lining then, but plan on staking it all in at about

1500 intervals

[Spunky]

I was looking at sleepers, but because we need 190m it worked out quite expensive.