Do I Need Special Soil or Drainage? Setting Up for Success

Do I Need Special Soil or Drainage? Setting Up for Success

When it comes to gardening in a raised bed or planter, the setup matters just as much as the sunlight or watering schedule. At Kelowna Woodcraft, we build each handcrafted cedar planter box with durability, beauty, and practicality in mind—but even the best planter needs the right foundation to thrive.

If you're wondering whether you need special soil or drainage, the answer is: absolutely—and we're here to help you get it just right.

 


 

Why Drainage Is Non-Negotiable

Drainage is one of the most critical elements of successful planter gardening. Without it, water collects at the bottom of your container, leading to root rot, mildew, or even fungus gnats. Yuck.

That’s why our cedar planter boxes are thoughtfully designed with built-in drainage gaps, allowing excess water to escape naturally. Paired with cedar’s breathable nature, this ensures roots get the moisture they need—without drowning.

Want more drainage tips? Check out this helpful soil drainage guide from Savvy Gardening.

 


 

The Right Soil Mix = Happy Plants

Let’s be honest—soil from your backyard won’t cut it. Outdoor soil tends to be heavy, compacted, and poor in nutrients when used in planters. For raised beds and containers, you need a light, fluffy, well-draining soil mix.

Here’s a simple, proven blend perfect for planters:

- 40% compost (adds nutrients)

- 30% peat moss or coco coir (retains moisture)

- 30% perlite or vermiculite (aerates and drains)

Tip: Many garden centers now carry ready-made “raised bed soil” or “container mix,” which is ideal if you’re just getting started. learn more about store bought mixes here 

Or you can learn how to make your own from this helpful guide from SavvyGardening

If you're growing vegetables or herbs, always look for organic options, free from synthetic chemicals. Cedar is naturally safe and non-toxic, so it's the perfect companion to clean soil and chemical-free growing. 

 



Why Cedar Makes the Perfect Planter Material

It’s not just the rich color and timeless appearance that makes cedar planter boxes so desirable. Cedar contains natural oils that make it resistant to moisture, rot, and pests—which also means it doesn’t need to be pressure-treated with harsh chemicals.

This makes it a much safer choice for food-growing environments, especially when compared to plastic, metal, or pressure-treated lumber.

Want to know more? Learn why pressure treated wood can be the wrong choice for raised planters. and what other woods to avoid here


 

Bonus Tip: Add a Drainage Layer

If you want extra assurance your soil stays healthy, add a layer of drainage material at the bottom of your planter before filling it:

- Coarse gravel

- Broken terracotta or clay pots

- Pine bark mulch
                                                                                                                                          This helps water move freely and prevents soil from compacting over time.

 


 

Set Your Garden Up for Success

At Kelowna Woodcraft, we build more than planter boxes—we build the starting point for beautiful, nourishing, and sustainable garden spaces. Whether you're planting herbs for your kitchen or a full summer veggie patch, your success starts with a smart foundation.

When you choose one of our cedar planters, you’re choosing:

- A locally made, handmade product

- Sustainably sourced BC-grown cedar

- Timeless design built to last for years

Explore our full collection of planters and garden boxes, and bring your outdoor space to life—beautifully and naturally.

Photo by Viktor Talashuk on Unsplash

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