Should you use treated or untreated wood for raised garden beds? Wood is one of the most common material for use in raised beds. Untreated pine or spruce (whether heat-treated or kiln-dried) are good, inexpensive options. Unlike pressure-treated lumber, untreated or heat-treated wood contains no questionable chemical compounds that may leach into the soil within the bed.
Is pressure treated wood safe for raised gardens? Modern Pressure-Treated Lumber
According to the American Wood Protection Association and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, lumber treated with ACQ is safe for garden use. Its durability and nontoxicity make it among the best woods for raised garden beds.
What wood should not be used in a raised garden bed? Pressure-Treated Wood
In fact, the USDA’s organic regulations state that pressure treated wood should not be used if the lumber will be in contact with crops, soil, or livestock. Instead, invest in cedar or redwood to install a long-term raised garden bed with a high level of natural rot- and pest-resistant tannins.
What kind of wood should I use for a garden box? Spruce, Pine, Redwood, Juniper, Chestnut, and Cedar are the best and most popular woods for planter boxes. They are rot-resistant, safe for food crops, readily available, and don’t contaminate the soil either in the long run. However, before buying any one of these woods, keep their drawbacks in mind as well.