Why You Should Use an Organic Wood Sealant on Your Raised Garden Beds

When building raised wooden garden beds, one of the most overlooked—but crucial—steps is sealing the wood. While untreated wood may seem like a natural choice, it’s vulnerable to rot, pests, and weather damage. That’s where an organic wood sealant, like Garden Box Armor, comes in. 

Using a non-toxic wood sealer not only extends the life of your garden beds but also ensures that your soil—and the food you grow in it—remains safe to eat and chemical-free. 

The Case for Organic Wood Sealants 

Raised garden beds are often made from cedar, pine, or redwood—woods that are naturally beautiful and readily available but still require additional protection when used to house garden soil and plants. Here's why sealing them with an eco-friendly wood stain or sealer is essential: 

1. Protects Your Investment 

Wood exposed to moisture and UV rays will degrade over time. A garden bed sealer creates a barrier that repels water and prevents cracking, warping, and mold growth. 

2. Keeps Your Food Safe 

Many conventional sealers contain harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that can leach into the soil. A non-toxic wood sealer ensures your vegetables and herbs are grown in a safe environment. 

3. Environmentally Friendly 

Choosing an eco-friendly wood stain supports sustainable gardening practices. These products are biodegradable, without VOCs, and safe for pollinators and pets. 

How to Seal Your Raised Garden Bed 

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to sealing your garden bed with an organic wood sealant: 

Materials Needed: 

Instructions: 

1. Clean the Surface 

Wipe down the wood with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris. 

2. Apply the Sealer 

Using a brush or sprayer, apply a generous coat of garden bed sealer. Be sure to cover all sides, including the interior and bottom boards. 

3. Wipe Away Excess 

Allow the sealant to soak in for approximately 10–15 minutes. Using a clean, dry cloth or paintbrush, wipe away any excess sealer sitting on the surface of the wood. Repeat this step after every coat — a minimum of two coats is recommended. 

4. Let It Cure 

Allow the sealer to cure for 10–24 hours before introducing soil. 

FAQ: Organic Wood Sealants for Garden Beds 

Q: Can I use any wood sealer for my garden bed? 

A: No. Always choose a non-toxic wood sealer labeled safe for food contact and garden use, like Garden Box Armor. Avoid products with synthetic chemicals or high VOCs. 

Q: How often should I reseal my garden bed? 

A: Every 1–2 years, or up to 10 years depending on your climate and the product used. Look for signs of wear like fading or water absorption. Seal It Green’s Garden Box Armor has FDA Food Contact Safe ingredients, is safe for use in wooden garden beds and can last up to 10 years! 

Q: What’s the difference between a stain and a sealer? 

A: A garden bed sealer protects the wood without changing its color, while an eco-friendly wood stain adds color and protection. Some products, like Garden Box Armor in Cedar, combine both. 

Final Thoughts 

Using an organic wood sealant like Garden Box Armor is a small step that makes a big difference. It protects your garden beds, your plants, and your health. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, sealing your wood with a non-toxic wood sealer or eco-friendly wood stain is a smart, sustainable choice. 

We hope you found this edition of the SIG blog informative & helpful! If you have any questions or would like to share your own experiences with Garden Box protection, please leave a comment below. We'd love to hear from you! 

Thank you for reading, and happy sealing! 

– The Seal It Green Team