When it comes to choosing the right wood for your raised garden bed , it is important to avoid using former types of woodwind discussion such as CCA ( Chromated Copper Arsenate ) , creosote , and Penta - care for timber . These treatment incorporate chemical substance that can potentially leach into the stain and be absorb by your plants , lay a risk to your health and the environment .

CCA was commonly used in woodwind treatments until it was phase out in residential app in 2003 due to its high arsenic content . Creosote and Penta - treated lumber were also widely used in the yesteryear , but they are now consider risky and are not advocate for use in raised beds .

Instead , it is best to opt for safer alternative such as ACQ ( Alkaline Copper Quaternary)-treated wood . ACQ - care for wood is commonly used in outdoor diligence , including rear bed , as it is effective in preventing bunk and decomposition . It has replaced CCA in many illustration and is considered a secure choice .

However , if you have concern about using ACQ - treat Grant Wood , there are a few precautions you could take . One option is to paint or stain the wood to create a barrier between the treated Mrs. Henry Wood and the soil . This can help prevent any likely leaching of chemicals into the soil .

Another option is to employ a heavy plastic liner between the woodwind instrument and your soil . This will act as a strong-arm roadblock , keep direct middleman between the Natalie Wood and the territory . Be certain to practice a deep and durable plastic liner to insure its effectiveness .

If you favor to avoid using wood altogether , there are alternate material you’re able to use for building your raised bed . Stones or brick can be stacked to make inflexible and indestructible elevate beds . These materials not only provide an attractive esthetic but also eliminate any concerns about using treated wood .

In my personal experience , I have used both ACQ - treated wood and alternative fabric for my raised beds . I have see that ACQ - treated wood is a convenient and cost - effective alternative , especially when combined with house painting or staining . However , I have also love the looking at and durability of stone advance bed in my garden .

To summarize , it is important to keep off using older types of woods discussion such as CCA , creosote , and Penta - treated lumber in your raised garden bed . or else , prefer for safer alternatives such as ACQ - treat wood or consider using non - wood edifice textile like stones or bricks . If you have concerns about using treated woods , you’re able to paint or stain the wood , use a plastic liner , or explore alternative materials for your raise beds .

Caroline Bates