Natural stone or brick

Natural stone (fieldstone, flagstone, limestone, granite) and brick create the most aesthetically beautiful and longest-lasting raised beds, with lifespans measured in decades to centuries. Stone gradually releases beneficial micronutrients into soil as it slowly weathers. Locally sourced stone is the most environmentally friendly raised bed material. Dry-stacked stone beds (no mortar) are a DIY option for beds up to about 18 inches high; taller beds benefit from mortar or a stonemason's expertise. Cost is the primary barrier: natural stone runs $15-30 per square foot of wall area, plus installation labor for mortared builds. A 4x8-foot stone bed can cost $500-2000+ depending on stone type and whether professional installation is needed. Brick is somewhat more affordable and uniform to work with. Both materials provide excellent thermal mass, absorbing daytime heat and releasing it at night, which benefits heat-loving crops like tomatoes and peppers. Stone beds are essentially permanent installations, so plan placement carefully.