I started Joseph’s Woodwork Co. back in 2018 shortly after we moved from Florida to my hometown of Houston, Texas. You can read all about it on our About page. I initially began to build and offer a variety of products with no clear idea of which ones I should focus on. That is … until the pandemic began and everyone wanted planter boxes and raised beds to grow their own food.

More Than Raised Garden Beds

Since then, wooden garden products have been the primary niche of this business, which is obvious to anyone browsing this website. We now have a well-established catalog of garden products to offer. But what’s exciting to me is I feel like we’re just getting started in that space. We’ve taken several big steps towards selling and shipping our products all over the country … even the big and heavy ones. The sky’s the limit for that main focus of our business.

But here’s the thing; I’m not a gardener and I don’t pretend to be one. I had no idea this business would go in the direction of gardening. But that’s what happened … essentially by accident. I love it and I’ll never run out of ideas for garden products.

Another Product We Could Build

All these years, however, I knew I wanted to add something new to the mix, something completely different. I considered several different options, many of which are ideas I still might want to develop in the future. Despite all the options, however, I knew I needed to settle and focus on just one thing. And whatever it ended up being, it would need to stand alone as a separate business rather than a new product line of Joseph’s Woodwork Co.

Sometime during the first half of 2023, I started building a shed in my own backyard because I needed the extra space. While I developed my plans, it didn’t take long for me to realize that storage sheds are the perfect product for us to start offering.

After delivering garden beds to the backyards of our clients, we are often asked what else we can build for them. “Do you do decks?” “Pergolas?” We get many of these questions. They’re happy with what we just built for them. They see the quality and craftsmanship we put into our work. So they ask us to build something else.

Houston Sheds

In these conversations, however, the one thing that came up more often than anything else is sheds. “Can you build me a shed?” Before last year, I would always say no. But that’s before I invested a considerable amount of time and effort developing a business plan for selling sheds in Houston. We got all of that squared away early in 2024. We then proceeded to book shed orders and we’ve already built several sheds for new happy clients.

Here I am working on a new shed in the La Porte area:

 

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The shed pricing page on the website is where you can see our standard features, custom options and pricing for a variety of common dimensions. Contact us today and tell us all about the shed you’d like for your backyard!

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What Is A Garden Shed?

First things first, let’s clarify exactly what we mean when we refer to a “garden shed.” Let’s also explain – once and for all – the difference between a garden shed and a regular storage shed.

One factor that distinguishes a garden shed from a storage shed is in what you keep inside. Perhaps you store garden-related items like soil, seeds and garden tools in your backyard structure. That alone would justify referring to it as a “garden shed.”

But that’s not the only factor. What actually makes it a garden shed is that you – as a gardener – will likely come and go from the shed on a regular basis. As you may know, gardening takes a lot of time and work. As you frequently retrieve items from the shed and then put them away, you’ll notice that your shed is essentially a work station. Depending on how serious of a gardener you are, you may go in there several times a week or maybe even every day.

Difference Between a Garden Shed and a Storage Shed

On the contrary, weeks or even months may pass between your visits to a regular storage shed. It’s holding items you simply don’t want to keep in the house or garage. It’s full of things you rarely need, but you still want to keep them.

Another little detail about storage sheds is that the temperature inside is rarely a concern. It may be freezing inside your shed or roasting hot (like it is right now in Houston). But the suitcases, shovels and Christmas tree stand in your shed have no complaints about the extreme temperatures. They’ll be fine. You don’t need to see them, touch them or think about them until their times comes.

On the other hand, extreme temperatures in your garden shed could be a problem. Mainly due to the fact that you need to some spend time inside it on a regular basis.

I recently entered a storage shed in which it had to be 120 degrees inside. After getting what I needed, I immediately left. I was in there for 10 seconds. It was unbearable. I couldn’t imagine actually doing anything inside a shed like that (tag: garden shed houston)

Related post: Create Mel’s Mix Soil for Your Square Foot Garden

A Shed Is Not a Greenhouse

Clarifying even further about what a garden shed is, we should also mention what it isn’t. A shed is not a greenhouse.

A greenhouse is for growing seeds, protecting plants and maintaining an environment where greens have a chance to grow. For this reason, greenhouses require clear panels to allow the sun in (rather than solid walls).

Also, if anything is going to grow in a greenhouse, water needs to enter the greenhouse one way or another (water hose, irrigation system, water carriers, etc.). Further, if water is going in, you should expect it to splash, drip, fall and sprinkle all over the floor. For this reason, a greenhouse requires a floor made of pressure-treated boards so that water can pass through them to the ground below.

If the floor is built with plywood, as is common with sheds, the water has no way of passing through the floor. It will pool up on the plywood sheets until it evaporates.

This detail underscores the primary challenge of maintaining a greenhouse. A greenhouse requires even more time spent inside than a garden shed. In addition to storing garden items in a greenhouse, you’ll be preparing pots, pruning plants and simply passing the time enjoying your plants.

For this reason, airflow and internal temperature are even more important in a greenhouse. The usual solution for this challenge is to include several screened windows on a greenhouse. Windows serve the dual purpose of allowing in lots of light and also lots of air on hot days.

Well, that’s a wrap. If you have questions about a garden shed we can build for you, fill out the form below and we’ll promptly reply with some options.

Garden Shed Houston

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The Essence of Square Foot Gardening

Before we jump into Mel’s Mix Soil, let’s first understand the principles of square foot gardening. This innovative approach focuses on efficient space utilization, minimizing waste, and achieving high yields in small areas. In square foot gardening, garden beds are divided into one square foot sections, each containing a different plant. To make the most of these limited spaces, the right soil mix is crucial, and that’s where Mel’s Mix Soil comes into play.

I should mention here that I’m a woodworker, not a gardener. Nonetheless, I wanted to try all this out for myself. I’m already building garden beds left and right for clients. I figured I’d go ahead and build one for our own yard. The 4 x 4 cedar elevated bed you see below is ours.

What I like most about Mel’s Mix soil blend is how it simplified the complex subject of soil. I’m a total beginner when it comes to growing, so this is all new to me. But even I can understand an equal-parts blend of just three media. The results from that season were staggering. We had an abundance of cherry tomatoes for months, plus eggplants and cucumbers!

The Magic Behind Mel’s Mix Soil

Mel Bartholomew formulated Mel’s Mix Soil as a game-changer for square foot gardening. This mix is not your typical garden soil but a well-balanced blend that ensures the best growing conditions for your plants. The composition of Mel’s Mix Soil consists of three primary components:

• 1/3 Compost: Compost is the heart and soul of Mel’s Mix. It’s loaded with essential nutrients, beneficial microorganisms, and it provides excellent moisture retention. When choosing compost, opt for a high-quality mix that includes various organic materials like kitchen scraps, yard waste, and well-rotted manure.
• 1/3 Peat Moss: Peat moss is a vital component for moisture retention. It also helps to lighten the soil and make it easier to work with, especially in raised beds. I’ve heard there are some environmental concerns regarding the impact of peat moss harvesting. Admittedly, I don’t have any info regarding that impact except that there is some concern about it. And I hear you could consider using alternatives like coconut coir as a more sustainable option.
• 1/3 Vermiculite: Vermiculite is an excellent soil conditioner that improves aeration and drainage. It prevents the soil from becoming too compacted and allows plant roots to access oxygen and water more effectively.

This balanced combination of compost, peat moss (or coconut coir), and vermiculite creates the perfect environment for your square foot garden to thrive. Together, they provide a nutrient-rich, well-draining, and moisture-retentive mix that promotes healthy plant growth.

Preparing Mel’s Mix Soil for Raised Garden Beds

Now that you understand the core components of Mel’s Mix Soil, let’s talk about how to prepare and use it in your raised garden beds for square foot gardening:

• Choose the Right Location: Select a suitable location for your raised garden beds. Ensure they receive at least 6-8 hours of sunlight each day. This is essential for the growth of most vegetables and herbs.
• Construct Your Raised Beds: Build or assemble your raised garden beds in the desired location. They can be made from various materials, such as wood, metal, or concrete blocks. Ensure that each bed is divided into one square foot sections using a grid, which is a defining feature of square foot gardening. Here is a garden plan and design website.
• Mix Your Mel’s Mix: To prepare Mel’s Mix Soil, combine equal parts of compost, peat moss (or coconut coir), and vermiculite. Use a large container or a wheelbarrow to blend the components thoroughly. Make sure the mix is well-incorporated.
• Fill the Beds: Fill your raised garden beds with the Mel’s Mix Soil. It should be at least 6-8 inches deep in each square foot section. This depth provides enough space for most plants’ roots to establish and grow.
• Plant Your Garden: Now comes the exciting part – planting your square foot garden. Follow the recommended planting spacing for each type of vegetable or herb you plan to grow. The grid lines on your raised bed will help you keep track of the one-square-foot sections.
• Care and Maintenance: Regularly water your garden to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Consider using a soaker hose or drip irrigation system for even moisture distribution. You’ll also need to periodically replenish the compost to maintain soil fertility.

Benefits of Mel’s Mix Soil in Square Foot Gardening

Mel’s Mix Soil offers several advantages in the context of square foot gardening:

• High Productivity: This is no joke. You’ll have abundant results. The nutrient-rich composition of Mel’s Mix promotes healthy plant growth and high yields. The one-square-foot sections make it easy to plan and manage your garden effectively.
• Weed Control: Because you’re growing plants close together, there’s less room for weeds to take hold. This means less time spent weeding and more time enjoying your garden.
• Improved Soil Structure: The light and airy nature of Mel’s Mix Soil encourages strong root development and prevents soil compaction.
• Sustainability: By using compost and other waste that would ordinarily go into the trash, you’re contributing to a more sustainable and efficient garden.

Making Mel’s Mix Soil in Houston

For our garden bed, we used this Black Gold Organic Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss product from Ace Hardware. They appear to have it at several of their locations here in Houston. We purchased our vermiculite from Southwest Fertilizer on Bissonnet Street. They have it in very big bags. We also got our compost from Southwest Fertilizer. We bought several varieties of it. This included cow manure compost, vegetable compost, leaf compost, chicken manure compost, mushroom compost and worm castings compost.

In conclusion, I highly recommend Mel’s Mix Soil for square foot gardening or in any other raised garden bed. Its well-balanced composition of compost, peat moss and vermiculite creates the ideal growing environment for your plants. By following the principles of square foot gardening and using Mel’s Mix, you can make the most of limited space and enjoy a bountiful harvest year after year. So, roll up your sleeves, fill those raised garden beds, and get ready to experience the joy of gardening in a whole new way. Happy gardening!

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As we got more requests for elevated garden beds, we had to figure out the design and materials to use. Regarding the walls, floor and upper ledge of the garden bed, we had lots of questions … and lots of testing to do with material of varied thicknesses.

As for the legs of the garden bed, however, that part was easy. Untreated 4x4s was the obvious material to go with. We just needed to find them. This proved to be more challenging than we expected.

Where to Find Untreated 4×4 Lumber

At every home center we visited, there were plenty of 4x4s made with pressure-treated pine and cedar. But we couldn’t use either one of these products.

Pressure-treated pine was out of the question, first and foremost, due to its color. Whereas the rest of the garden bed is made with golden cedar, PT pine is greenish in color. That would make the legs stand out in sharp contrast with the rest of the product. And even if we were ok with that contrast in color, we had a secondary reason to avoid PT pine. Most clients simply don’t want their garden beds built with chemically-treated lumber.

As for cedar 4x4s, the common ones we found were simply too expensive. As of this writing, an 8-foot 4×4 is selling for $43 at Lowes. We needed two of these 8-footers for each of our long garden beds. So this option would add nearly $100 to our material cost. That extra cost would then take our selling price beyond where we wanted it to be. So we kept looking for another option.

To be perfectly honest, we didn’t even know what we were looking for. Even if we found untreated 4x4s in pine, we knew we couldn’t use that either. It would deteriorate too quickly, much faster than the rest of the bed’s materials.

Douglas Fir 4x4s

And that’s when we met our good friend, Douglas. Douglas fir, that is.

I cannot overstate how important it was for us to realize the effectiveness of using Douglas fir for garden beds. It was a total gamechanger for us and our clients. It kept our material cost down, which helped us maintain reasonable prices for well-built products.

The resilience of Doug fir doesn’t quite match that of cedar. It’s definitely a step down in terms of longevity in exterior applications. However, we had a specific solution for that issue. We applied a water seal to the very bottom of the legs. This end would be prone to absorbing water on the ground which would quickly make it deteriorate. By sealing up that end, it helped the legs to effectively repel groundwater instead of absorbing it. Problem solved.

As for its color, Doug fir is pinkish in color whereas cedar is closer to brown. After about a year, however, it doesn’t matter. Both the cedar and the Douglas will go grey and will almost appear to be the same material.

The only issue we’ve had with Doug fir 4x4s is that they’re a little hard to find. There’s only one Home Depot in our area that carries them. But as of right now, it’s totally worth it to go there. They’re only $13 to $15. Check for them in your area with this link: Douglas fir at Home Depot. The model number for this lumber is 279542.

Back to Cedar 4x4s

We carried on with Douglas fir 4x4s for quite some time. We built dozens of elevated beds with them.

But then we made another groundbreaking discovery early in 2023 which – once again- changed everything.

As you can imagine, we constantly monitor the price of lumber. I can tell you the approximate price of all the lumber at a home center without looking at any of the price tags. When I walk by a stack of cedar 4x4s, I know they’re going to run between $40 and $45.

So you can imagine my surprise when came across a stack of them at Home Depot for $25! I froze and just stared at the price tag in disbelief.

“This can’t be right. Is this the discounted lumber section? Is there something wrong with it? No!? Is this really cedar? It is!? How is this possible? Where’s the manager?”

Even now, I can’t really explain how or why Lowes and Home Depot sell some cedar 4x4s for $25 and some for $40+ … in the same store.  Sometimes, on the same rack. In appearance, they’re pretty much the same thing. They have the same weight and density. They even smell the same.

Affordable Cedar 4x4s at Home Depot and Lowes

As I continued looking into the difference between them, the only detail I could find is that the more-expensive 4×4 is labeled as Western Red Cedar whereas the $25 4×4 is not. Aside from that, every other detail is the same. They’re both considered “green lumber,” which means they haven’t been dried in a kiln. They have the same weather-resistant qualities which make them last a long time in the outdoors.

Thus, I came to the conclusion that I can use them for our elevated beds. It’s a big win for everyone involved; for us, for our clients and even for Lowes and Home Depot. The legs on our elevated garden beds are now made with wood from the same species as the rest of the product. Everything perfectly matches in color and none of the lumber is treated with chemicals (none of the cedar lumber at home centers is ever treated).

Our cedar elevated garden bed with untreated 4×4 legs

Again, the only challenge with these is that they’re not at ever store. At Home Depot, the model number is #2900808. At Lowes, the item number is 854882, currently at $35.

Of course, the good news for you is that if you don’t need your untreated 4×4 to be cedar, you’ll pay much less than $25. I linked above to Home Depot’s option. And here is the link to the Lowes option (link). When you find these at a store, it may be Douglas fir or possibly spruce. But they won’t be treated.

As for untreated 4×4 in pine, I’ve never seen them. But with one of the options presented above, you’re likely to find what you need.

I welcome and look forward to your feedback. Leave a comment. I wood love to hear your thoughts!

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Obviously, you can create a short list of tradesmen by searching on Google. But there might be some ambiguity in that type of search. Not to mention that many of the businesses you call on will give you a standard reply of “We don’t do that.”

In this post, we’ll turn your needle-in-a-haystack search into one that is pointed and clear. And if all goes well, you may end up with multiple professionals bidding for the work you need done.

Maybe You Just Need a Handyman

Let’s start with the possibility that you don’t actually need a local woodworker or carpenter at all.

Do your drawers need to be fixed or put back into alignment? Are your doors sticking to the door frame and need an adjustment? Does your fence or deck need a board replaced?

Well, the good news here is that your average handyman can do any of these simple tasks. Yes, the same guy who comes around to work on your sink and light fixtures probably has the tools and skills required to fix the broken wood around your home. It can’t hurt to ask him.

After presenting the task to a handyman … if you sense any hesitation in his willingness or confidence to do it then don’t press it any further. Move on to the next guy. The last thing you want is a guy who’s winging it, not sure what he’s doing and possibly making the problem worse.

Find a Local Carpenter

Another scenario is when you need something built in or on a specific section of your home. Everything will need to be measured and customized for that space. This includes things like a new staircase, a new built-in or closet or even custom cabinets. The key factor here is that a carpenter who’s capable of doing this work will need to show up with his tools and do most of the work right there at your home.

An actual carpenter already has the tools and skills to do these kinds of tasks. There’s a minimal amount of “figuring out” for him to do, even if the job is complex. He’s already done this type of task several times before. This is what sets him apart from a handyman.

The local home center will have most if not all of the materials a carpenter will need to complete the job. He’ll need simple building materials like pressure-treated pine, untreated pine and regular fasteners. The process of finding a local carpenter is essentially the same as finding a local woodworker, which is highlighted below. But it helps to understand the type of work these guys do and don’t do.

The Difference Between Carpenters and Woodworkers

Now that we understand the appropriate occasions for handymen and carpenters, let’s turn our attention to woodworkers. The primary difference between a carpenter and a woodworker is in where they work. Whereas carpenters have most of their tools in their vehicle in order to work onsite, most of a woodworker’s tools are back in his shop. That’s where he does most of his work.

Also, whereas the usual work of carpenters involves immovable builds like closets, stairs and built-ins, the usual offerings of woodworkers are deliverable pieces of one size or another. This would include tables, benches, chairs and smaller items like cutting boards or other handheld items.

Of course, there is considerable overlap between these two tradesmen. After all, they have many of the same tools and skills. A woodworker will often build something in his shop and then deliver and install it onsite like a carpenter. A carpenter, despite having many tools on his vehicle, most likely has a shop of his own back home where he can build more complex items like a woodworker. But it’s important to understand the work they do more than 80% of the time.

Last thing I’ll mention regarding the difference between carpenters and woodworkers is that woodworkers tend to have experience with a greater variety of woods … softwoods, hardwoods and everything in between. Not to mention finishes, stains and surface textures. Again, your average carpenter likely has the capability of using such varied materials. But in his typical day-to-day routine, he typically doesn’t.

How to Find a Local Woodworker

Now that we understand the scenarios where a woodworker is needed, let’s focus on how to find one. Keep in mind that most woodworkers work within one or a few specific niches.

In our specific case, for example, we are currently not set up to do any fine finishing. That requires a relatively dust-free environment which we just don’t have at the moment. So this rules us out for doing high-end furniture or cabinetry (for now). The work spaces for most of our products are rough and dusty. Thus, although we’re a woodworking company, we may not be able to assist with your specific project.

However, if you’re looking to hire a woodworker in Houston for high-end work, send us a message here and we’ll steer you towards someone who can do it.

If, on the other hand, you’re nowhere near Houston and you need to hire a local woodworker, here’s what you need to do. Go to Facebook and search for a local woodworking community. Here in Houston, the group I follow is Woodworker’s Club of Houston. This is a closed group that you’ll need to join. They’ll ask you one or two basic questions about your interest in the group. Once you answer those, they’ll accept you into the group and you’ll be able to see all of their posts.

Of course, you probably won’t have much interest in the posts since they’re mostly about tools, woodworking problems and other trade-related topics. But the guys in groups like these, however, are exactly the audience to whom you should pitch your project.

How to Hire a Local Woodworker

Once you’re in the group, create a post with as many photos and details as possible which highlight the style and type of work you want done … or the piece you want them to build for you. I’ll take this a step further and suggest that you mention your budget for the project. This will save everyone a lot of time and help you to understand the going rate for professional woodwork in your area.

I’d encourage you to be realistic and fair in this process. If your budget is only $500, you can’t request something like a 12-foot dinner table with matching chairs … all made with Brazilian hardwoods. You’ll need to calibrate your expectations

The great thing about this Facebook approach is that you’re pitching your project to the exact group of people who are capable of building the pieces you want. Once you’ve clearly laid out the details, some will message you or request that you send them a direct message. Ask them for photos of their work, particularly photos which demonstrate they can build the type of piece you’re asking for.

Aside from this approach, keep in mind that some woodworkers are so good and busy at what they do that they’ll never see your post. They’re too busy doing awesome woodwork!! But perhaps on some occasions in the past, they posted photos of their work. If their past work indicates that they can handle your project, contact them. Send a message. Find out the name and number of their business and make it clear you’re a serious buyer.

Iron Out the Details

Hopefully, the woodworker presents himself as a professional seller who has done this before. If it’s evident that is not the case, walk away. Other side of the same coin … you need to present yourself a serious buyer. At the beginning, all he has is a rough idea of what you want. All of that ambiguity needs to be ironed out like a wrinkled pair of pants … every single detail. Leave no room for error. For example;

“The overall height of the coffee table should be 20 inches. Overall length and width of the table should be 60 x 24 inches. The thickness of the top should be 1.5 inches.  The top should extend past the the legs only 1/2 an inch. The whole thing should be built from white maple and finished with clear shellac. The style of the legs and edges should match those of the attached photo.”

Of course, it takes a lot of communication to get to this point. You may not have any of these details, but rather, just a photo of something you want built. A professional woodworker will guide you to this point. He’ll provide sketches, drawings, photos, color and finish samples, etc. However, please keep in mind … all these chats are taking his time. He will likely include his fee for that time in his final price.

How to Pay a Local Woodworker

Man, this post is much longer than I expected. But anyhow, we’ve come this far – and you’re still reading it – so let’s be thorough and cover this topic too; how to pay a local woodworker.

Just like the details of the piece should be written out, you should also clarify and detail payment terms between you and the woodworker. Leave no room for miscommunication;

“I, the customer, agree to pay XYZ Woodworks a grand total of $1,850.00 for the pieces which are detailed in this agreement. This total includes labor, materials and delivery. I agree to pay 50% of that total ($925) to initiate the order. The balance of $925 will be due upon delivery. The estimated delivery date of the order is (a specific date on the calendar). XYX Woodworks will update me if this date is expected to change.”

That’s more or less the type of language you need to have in your agreement. It makes it clear that you have clear and firm expectations. You could even take it a step further by including additional clauses for negative scenarios. These clauses would spell out the terms that release you and the tradesman from the agreement (refund of deposit, etc). This would be more appropriate with a higher-dollar project. In that case, you might want to consider a more formal contract rather than a typed up agreement.

Anyhow, I could go on and on with these topics. But hopefully this post provides you with a general idea of how to approach these types of tradesmen. If you have any questions, please feel free to message us. Good luck with your project!

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What Does Rustic Mean?

Rustic decor is a design style that highlights the rugged and natural elements of the great outdoors. It draws inspiration from rural settings, cabins, and countryside aesthetics. At its core, rustic decor is all about creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels both comfortable and authentic. At the opposite end of the spectrum are modern and contemporary styles which incorporate man-made materials like glass, metal and concrete.

I think it’s interesting and noteworthy how – as a species – we’re capable of creating living spaces that are far removed from such natural elements. We could all live within cold glass and plastic if we wanted to. And in some ways, those materials would be easier to afford and maintain. However, there is something within us that is drawn to the beauty of nature. We know that’s where we came from and it is clearly where many of us want to reside.

Here are some key characteristics of rustic decor:

Natural Materials

It embraces natural materials like wood, stone, and leather. Wood, in particular, plays a central role, as it adds warmth, texture and a connection to the natural world.

Earth Tones

The color palette of rustic decor typically includes earthy tones such as warm browns, deep greens, rich reds, and subdued blues. These colors mimic the hues of nature and contribute to a calming environment.

Textured Surfaces

Incorporating textures like rough-hewn wood, distressed finishes, and aged metals creates depth and interest in rustic spaces.

Cozy Furnishings

Comfort is a key element. Think plush sofas, oversized chairs, and cozy blankets that invite you to relax and unwind.

Nature-Inspired Accents

Decorative elements like botanical prints, animal motifs, and nature-inspired artwork bring the outdoors inside.

Now that we understand the essence of rustic decor, let’s explore how to implement this style with wood furniture in your home.

Tips for Implementing Rustic Decor with Wood Furniture

Choose the Right Wood

Start by selecting wood furniture that embodies the rustic aesthetic. Look for solid wood pieces with visible grain patterns, knots, and natural imperfections. Woods like oak, pine, walnut, and reclaimed wood are excellent choices. The wood’s finish should be weathered or distressed to give it that well-loved, aged look.

Mix and Match Furniture Styles

Don’t be afraid to mix different styles of wood furniture. Combining pieces with varying finishes and wood types adds depth and character to your space. For example, pair a weathered barnwood dining table with chairs made from reclaimed oak for a striking contrast.

Focus on the Dining Room

The dining room is an excellent place to showcase rustic wood furniture. Consider a robust farmhouse table with chunky legs as the centerpiece. Complete the look with wooden benches or chairs that feature comfortable, upholstered seats in earthy tones.

Here a how-to video by the Shanty-2-Chic girls in which they build a modern-style farmhouse table with simple tools and inexpensive materials.

Create a Cozy Living Room

In your living room, opt for a large, plush sectional sofa upholstered in a natural, textured fabric. Pair it with a coffee table crafted from reclaimed wood or a wooden chest that can double as a storage solution and a rustic centerpiece.

Bedroom Bliss

Transform your bedroom into a rustic retreat with a wooden bed frame featuring a distressed finish. Incorporate wooden nightstands, dressers, and wardrobes to complete the look. Soften the space with cozy bedding, throws, and pillows in earthy colors.

Accessorize Thoughtfully

Enhance the rustic ambiance with carefully chosen accessories. Consider wrought iron or black metal light fixtures, antler chandeliers, and wooden wall art. Mason jars, woven baskets, and dried flowers make for charming rustic accents.

Related post: A Haven by the Sea, a short story

Embrace Imperfections

Rustic decor celebrates the beauty of imperfections. Don’t shy away from furniture with dents, dings, or natural knots; these quirks add character and authenticity to your space.

Bring the Outdoors In

Enhance the rustic vibe by incorporating natural elements like stone, slate, and even animal hide rugs. These elements contribute to the sense of connection with the outdoors that rustic decor embodies.

Personalize Your Space

Make your rustic decor uniquely yours by incorporating personal touches. Display family photos in weathered wood frames or create a gallery wall with rustic-themed artwork.

Stay True to Your Vision

Ultimately, the aim of this style is to create a space that reflects your love for nature and the simple joys of life. Let your personal style shine through, whether it’s through DIY projects, heirloom pieces, or custom-made furniture.

Incorporating rustic decor with wood furniture into your home is a journey that involves selecting pieces that resonate with you and creating an environment that exudes warmth and authenticity. Embrace the beauty of nature’s imperfections, and you’ll find that rustic decor can transform your living spaces into inviting retreats where you can relax and unwind in style.

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1. Leafy Greens: Houston’s fall weather is ideal for growing a variety of leafy greens. Plant spinach, kale, Swiss chard, and lettuce in your garden. These cool-season crops thrive in temperatures between 50°F to 70°F, which is typical for Houston in the fall. They’re also relatively easy to grow and can be used in salads, sandwiches, or as a nutritious side dish.

2. Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are all excellent choices for your fall garden in Houston. Start these from transplants in late summer, and they’ll mature in the cooler fall weather. Just be sure to protect them from pests like cabbage worms with row covers or organic insecticides.

3. Root Vegetables: Carrots, beets, radishes, and turnips thrive in the Houston fall climate. These vegetables can be planted directly into your garden bed or in containers. They add a pop of color and flavor to your meals and are perfect for roasting, pickling, or making salads.

Related post: The Benefits of Growing from Seeds, by Garden Girls

More Veggies to Grow in Your Houston Garden in the Fall

4. Herbs: Many herbs, such as cilantro, parsley, and chives, flourish in Houston’s fall weather. These aromatic herbs can be planted in pots or directly in the ground. They’re a great addition to your culinary creations and can be easily preserved for use throughout the year.

5. Peas: Snap peas and snow peas are cool-season vegetables that do well in the fall in Houston. These climbing plants can be trained to grow on trellises, saving valuable garden space, and producing sweet, crunchy pods that are perfect for snacking or adding to stir-fries.

6. Green Onions: Green onions, also known as scallions, are a versatile addition to your fall garden. They grow quickly and can be used in various dishes, including salads, soups, and garnishes.

7. Garlic: Fall is the ideal time to plant garlic in Houston. Plant individual cloves in well-draining soil, and by spring, you’ll have plump garlic bulbs ready for harvest. Garlic is an essential ingredient in many cuisines and provides excellent flavor to your dishes.

Related post: Start Here Before You Plant Your Fall Garden, by Garden Girls

A Few More Crops to Grow in Your Houston Garden in the Fall

8. Peppers: While it’s best to start pepper plants indoors in late summer, they can continue to produce well into the fall in Houston. Bell peppers, jalapeños, and other hot pepper varieties can add some heat to your fall dishes.

9. Tomatoes: In Houston’s mild fall, tomato plants that were started in late summer can still produce fruit. Look for heat-tolerant varieties and provide some protection from cooler temperatures and pests. Our planter boxes are perfect for tomatoes, by the way

10. Pumpkins and Squash: If you’re looking to embrace the fall spirit and enjoy some seasonal decorations, consider planting pumpkins and various squash varieties. These thrive in the warm Texas climate and can be used for carving, cooking, or decorating your home.

11. Cover Crops: To enrich your soil and prepare for the next growing season, consider planting cover crops like clover or winter rye. These help prevent soil erosion and add organic matter to the soil.

Houston’s weather can be unpredictable, as you already know. So it’s essential to monitor your garden regularly and provide protection if unexpected cold snaps occur. Additionally, mulching your garden beds can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

In conclusion, Houston’s fall season provides an excellent opportunity to grow a diverse range of vegetables, herbs, and even decorative plants. By selecting the right crops, practicing good gardening techniques, and staying attuned to the local weather, you can enjoy a successful and rewarding fall harvest. So, roll up your sleeves, put on your gardening gloves, and get ready to savor the flavors of autumn from your very own Houston garden. Happy gardening!

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Of course, as you know, Lowes sells a lot more than just materials. They offer a vast number of finished goods. One of those finished goods just happens to be something that I sell; planter boxes. They get my attention every time I’m in the garden section.

Perfecting My Planter Box

I don’t want to say that I have “obsessed” over the quality, materials and design of my planter boxes. I don’t like using that word to describe myself. But I do think all the thoughts, trial and error I’ve put into my boxes have been something close to an obsession.

I’ve looked at them a hundred different ways. I’ve followed up with clients years after selling them boxes so I could inspect them. I continually asked for feedback and I used that feedback to make the boxes better. I’ve even tossed them around to see how much abuse they can take before falling apart. And the very first ones I ever built are still in my backyard holding a blackberry bush. So it’s always fun to look at them and see how far they’ve come along.

Of course, my business is a small one. And the only way for businesses like mine to stay alive and stand apart is to go through this process and offer great products. So it just makes sense that I’ve put all this time and effort into one of my main products.

Lowes Planter Box

Lowes, on the other hand, is a big company. One product isn’t going to move the needle very much for Lowes. It’s just one of thousands they sell. And this means they likely haven’t done any of the research and development on their boxes that I’ve done for mine. And I’ll just just be honest; it’s evident.

Again, all due respect to Lowes. They are my main supplier and I wouldn’t be in business without them. And I have no desire to go out of my way to write anything negative about the company or their products.

But in this case, they’re charging $66 or even $100 for these boxes, which is drastically high for what they’re offering. Perhaps you’re doing research on these boxes before buying one. If that’s the case, I just figured you might benefit this assessment. After all, you’re the customer and you deserve the truth. If you’re going to part with your hard-earned money, you should know what you’re getting for it.

Cracked, Broken & Weak

Lowes planter boxes are assembled very hastily with weak materials and poor craftsmanship. They also have the disadvantage of having to ship from the other side of the world. This almost certainly means the boxes are crammed into a crate and knocked around with other boxes during the long voyage. (tag: plant box Lowes)

When they finally arrive to the shelf of your local Lowes, they’re not in good shape. Broken boards, gaps between boards and protruding nails among other issues. All of this could be overlooked if you had some confidence these boxes will still perform their basic function and last a few years. But judging from the product reviews on their own website, that’s clearly not the case.

Here’s an attempt to simply keep the box on the ground and fill it with soil:

“I brought this home and it fell apart as I was filling it up with potting soil. It can’t do the one job it was made to do.”

The Lowes Box Isn’t a Window Box

And here we have two bold attempts to fasten the boxes to vertical surfaces like window panes and deck rails. This is actually quite baffling to me. These boxes are barely holding together just sitting on the ground. It doesn’t take a structural engineer to realize they’re not up to the challenge of holding wet soil up off the ground. No chance.

“We were hesitant of even installing it when we saw how soft the wood was and how many spaces there were between each piece, but we decided to go ahead with it. The side separated from the back after 2 months and we reinforced it with wood screws. It rained all night last night and I was leaving for work when I saw that everything but the back was on the ground. The box is totally useless. Not looking forward to spending another $100+ on a new one.”

“I purchased 10 of these boxes just over a year ago. My wife loves her flowers and enjoys putting her flowers in these every year. Only got one season out of them. Decided I could build a better product myself so all of these are coming down and going into the firepit. Anyone with any skill could build a better box. Don’t waste your money.”

Of course, not all of the reviews are bad. Here’s a positive one where the customer appears to be happy with what she bought.

“This window box is beautiful with flowers in small AND large areas.”

One Good Alternative

Lastly, as I mentioned before, I build and sell planter boxes too. I’m quite proud of them. And if I had 1,740 stores around the country (as Lowes does), I’m sure my boxes would sell like crazy in those stores. But until then, I’ll keep building them right here in Pearland, Texas. And I’ll keep selling and shipping them all over the country.

You’ll see the available options and sizes in the product listed below. They range from 3 feet in length all the way to nearly 8 feet in length. You’ll be very pleased with their quality. They’re easy to assemble. All you need is a Phillips-head screwdriver.

They’re made of 100% cedar wood and all of the metal fasteners that hold it together are made of stainless steel. Therefore, you won’t see any rust and the box will hold together for many years. The 3 inch legs allow for plenty of airflow below the box, which prolongs its life.

Plant Box Lowes

(tag: plant box Lowes)

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Of course, just around the corner from where they keep the Douglas fir, you’ll find they also have western red cedar. Cedar is widely considered the best material for raised garden beds due to several factors detailed in the following post:  Choosing a Raised Garden Bed for Your Garden.

cedar raised garden bed – 4′ x 8′ x 14″

Douglas Fir Is Affordable

Just one cedar 2 x 4, however, costs around $18. For that reason alone, cedar often becomes an unaffordable option in the planning stage. This brings Douglas fir back into consideration. By comparison, one 2 x 4 in Douglas fir is somewhere between $4 to $5. I don’t know about you, but the possibility of reducing my material cost by 80% is very intriguing to me. You can’t ignore savings of that magnitude. Whether you’re doing the building or someone else is building the beds for you, there should be a drastic difference in cost between using cedar and Douglas fir. I recommend getting a quote for both options.

By the way, if you’re shopping at Lowes, item #7001 is what you’re looking for. These are straight, high-quality boards measuring a full 96 inches. They are pinkish in color. Look on the board and confirm it has a stamp that says “D fir.” They sometimes sell hem fir boards under the same bar code. Lowes  also has Douglas fir studs that are pre-cut down to 92.5 inches. I don’t know why, but these pre-cut boards are often in rough shape. They’re not as straight and they have lots of knots, so I avoid them.

Durability and Longevity

Douglas fir grows abundantly in the cold, wet regions of the pacific northwest. It has a natural resistance to decay and insect damage, which makes it ideal for raised garden beds. Douglas fir can withstand harsh weather conditions and maintain its structural integrity for years. Its dense fibers and straight-grain patterns provide a reliable barrier for garden bed walls.

Having used Douglas fir on more than 100 raised beds, I can tell you it holds screws well. They kiln-dry these boards before arriving to stores. This kills whatever bugs and organisms which may be living in its fibers. Another benefit of the kiln is that boards are immediately dry and ready for building right after you buy them.

Contrast this with pressure-treated pine, which is typically loaded with moisture when you take it home. As that moisture gradually evaporates, the boards will shrink. If you fasten these boards to other boards with screws or nails before they’ve had time to shrink, there will be tension around the fasteners as the boards contract. This is the #1 reason why boards crack on outdoor furniture. All that to say … this shrinkage issue isn’t much of a concern with Douglas fir because it’s dry and not treated with chemicals.

Excellent Water Retention

Douglas fir boasts a moderate level of water resistance, which means it can help retain moisture in the soil without causing waterlogging. This contributes to healthy hydration for your plants, especially in varying weather conditions.

More Advantages of Using Douglas Fir for Raised Garden Bed Builds

Beyond its functional benefits, Douglas fir wood also adds a touch of natural beauty to your garden space. Its warm, pinkish hues create a visually appealing garden bed that compliments any outdoor setting. I always look forward to building anything with Douglas fir. It’s easy to handle. It’s pretty and it even smells nice, like a bouquet of flowers. Believe me … after passing thousands of linear feet of the stuff through a table saw, you become very familiar with its scent.

Another advantage of Douglas fir is its eco-friendliness. It’s often sourced from sustainably-managed forests. This is a win-win for the planet. You’re using Douglas fir to grow healthy plants while foresters are continually planting more Douglas fir. (tag: douglas fir for garden bed)

Low Maintenance

You don’t necessarily need to add any product or preservative to Douglas fir wood. With nothing on it, Douglas fir will withstand raw, direct contact with wet soil and extreme temperatures much better than untreated pine. You can expect Douglas fir to have 5 to 7 years of high-integrity life before it begins to deteriorate. As for its pinkish color, it goes grey fairly quickly, within one year. But that’s just a matter of aesthetics. Its color has nothing to do with how long the wood will last.

If you plan to apply anything to the interior of your Douglas fir garden bed, I recommend raw linseed oil. Make sure it’s raw and not boiled linseed oil. The “boiled” version includes petroleum chemicals which shouldn’t be in your soil.  You can also use raw linseed oil on your bed’s exterior or something like Thompson’s Water Seal. After about a year, you’ll need to apply another coat to continue this protection.

Again, however, I would emphasize it’s not imperative to coat Douglas fir with anything. My client didn’t use anything on the garden bed above. As you can see, it’s entirely gray. But it’s still solid as a rock three years after I delivered it.

Here’s another thing to keep in mind if your Douglas fir beds begin to show signs of rot after 7 years. The relative affordability of this wood should eliminate all fear about it wearing out too soon. Just lift it up on one end and push it off to the side. Then put a new one around your soil and you’ve got another 7 years of a solid, natural barrier to hold all your soil together.

Douglas Fir…A Great Option

In conclusion, Douglas fir offers several advantages that make it an excellent choice for raised garden beds. From its exceptional durability to its low cost and easy workability, this wood provides a solid foundation for a thriving garden. Consider using Douglas fir in your next gardening project and experience the benefits firsthand.

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Do You Need a Raised Garden Bed in Houston?

This post includes most of what you’ll need to know to choose a raised garden bed that’s right for you. Down below, you’ll find a couple of our standard 4 x 8′ bed offerings. Just add them to your cart and check out. We also offer delivery to your location and installation options. In the contact form below, you can fill out the custom dimensions you need for your raised garden bed. Once we get that info, we’ll promptly send you a quote. For more immediate communication, reach us at (346) 202-5001.

We noticed a sharp spike in requests for raised garden beds when the quarantine period began in the Spring of 2020. We could hardly keep up with the demand. Some of this demand came from experienced gardeners who clearly knew what they wanted. But the overwhelming majority of the new business came from folks who were obvious beginners. In many cases, they posed questions to us about what to grow and what they needed, etc. Of course, our expertise is woodworking, not gardening.

Nonetheless, after building and installing dozens of these raised garden beds, we ended up with a robust knowledge of what these growers really needed. So I figured I would take the time to write out a post that would steer gardeners in the right direction. There are several factors to consider in regard to size, material, material thickness and design.

What’s the Best Wood for a Raised Garden Bed?

I’m posing this question with the assumption that you’d like to use wood for your bed. Some people are making raised beds out of concrete and other long-lasting materials. We’ve already done a few experiments with other materials so we can offer those products in the future. But for now, let’s consider four wood options for your bed.

Untreated Pine

Untreated pinewood is relatively inexpensive, but it’s definitely not a long-term option for your garden. If you consider that the wood of your bed will be constantly exposed to moisture and changing temperatures, untreated pine simply won’t hold up for very long…perhaps a year or two.

However, perhaps a year or two is all you need. If you’re a renter, for example, there’s no point in spending a lot of money on high-quality wood if you don’t plan to live there for long. And even if you do plan to stay in one place for many years, don’t rule out the inexpensive option of untreated pine. If one of your boards rots to the point where soil is flowing out of it, simply go and buy another board to replace it.

If you’re holding your walls together with retaining wall blocks (pictured below), replacing a board is super easy. Just cut the replacement board to length and put it in place. No drilling or screwing required.

The obvious drawback of these blocks is that they’re a bit of an eyesore. And considering that they protrude from the corners of your bed, they can often get in your way. And just imagine how easy it is to trip over one of these things at night.

Pressure-Treated Pine

Pressure-treated wood specifically solves the rotting problem. It’s designed to be outside and withstand moisture and severe weather. For this reason, it’s more expensive than untreated pine. As of this writing, an untreated 2x4x8 is $5.77 while a treated board with the same dimensions is $6.88.

Treated lumber often lasts 10 years or even longer, so it definitely holds up and provides good value. The only real drawback of pressure treated wood is the potential for its chemicals to leach into the roots of whatever you’re growing. If you’re growing food in your beds, that’s a valid concern. I don’t pretend to know whether or not there’s any real danger in exposing your roots to treated wood. If treated wood were the only affordable option, I would probably be willing to take the risk. My wife, on the other hand – who insists on organic everything – would not.

Cedar

A couple of 4′ x 8′ x 28″ cedar raised garden beds we built and installed for a client in Spring Branch.

In this post, I’m not including woods that you won’t find at your average home center. Black locust lumber, for example, is extremely resistant to rot. But good luck finding it. And if you find it, good luck affording it.

On the other hand, cedar is an affordable wood that you *will* find at most home centers. And it is also highly resistant to rot, mold and moisture.

Another bonus of using cedar is that many of the gardener’s enemies don’t like it. Fleas, moths, cockroaches, venomous snakes, mice, rats and mosquitoes all tend to stay away from cedar. The phenols and acids of cedar which give it an earthy scent are actually toxic to these critters. Even spiders tend to avoid cedar…not because of its toxicity, but because their prey (insects) tend not to be found near cedar.

A 2x4x8 cedar board is going for just under $10 these days. So you can imagine that using 8 to 12 of these boards on one bed can quickly become cost-prohibitive. As for longevity, you can expect to get 10 to 15 years of solid life out of a cedar garden bed without using any oils or sealers to protect it. (tag: raised garden bed houston)

Douglas Fir

Most of the raised garden beds we’ve built and sold this year were made of Douglas fir. Like cedar, it is also a rot-resisting wood. You should expect between 5 to 7 years of life from fir boards. The price of a Douglas fir 2×4 spiked in the fall of 2020 from $3.55 to $5.98.

At $3.55, Douglas fir was far and away the best option for raised garden beds…especially for those who needed several of them. But even at $5.98, it’s still a very good option.

A couple of 2×8 raised garden beds we built with Douglas fir for a client in Friendswood.

How Thick Do the Walls of a Raised Garden Bed Need to Be?

All of the wood I quoted above are 2x boards. Their actual thickness will be around 1.5 inches. That will provide plenty of strength to endure the constant outward pressure of the soil it contains. Deck boards are typically 1 inch thick. They can also get the job done, but will require extra reinforcement to prevent the long walls from bowing outward.

Another option to consider is cedar fence pickets. The two obvious advantages of fence pickets are their low cost and the benefits of using cedar. The only real drawback of fence pickets is that they’re only 5/8″ thick. That’s barely more than half an inch. Again, that doesn’t mean you can’t use fence pickets for the walls of your raised garden bed. But you will have to significantly reinforce them to prevent bowing…especially if you build them up high.

We use cedar fence pickets for our elevated garden beds. We build them with such thorough reinforcement that the boards have nowhere to move.

How High?

The required soil depth for the herbs and veggies you wish to grow is easily searchable on Google. That’s not my area of expertise. But from what I hear, there aren’t many greens or veggies that require more than 12 to 16 inches of soil. I follow a Facebook group that exclusively focuses on the Square Foot Gardening techniques of Mel Bartholomew…and I’ve seen plenty of pics in that group where they’re successfully growing greens in beds that are only 4 to 6 inches high.

Keep in mind that for every inch of height you have on your garden bed walls, that’s another full inch of soil you’re going to need across the span of your bed…not to mention the additional cost of the wood. That adds up quickly. And if the greens you’re growing don’t really need that depth, you’re wasting soil and money. So take the time and do your research. Figure out which greens grow best alongside your other greens. Ask questions, try a few experiments and document your results. (tag: raised garden bed houston)

Click here to see our cedar garden box options

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