What Type of Wood to Use

The wood to use for a raised bed is your decision. Here are some options:

• Cedar and redwood are naturally water-resistant but can be expensive and hard to find. Hemlock, fir, and pine are suitable materials for raised beds but aren't very long-lasting.
• Pressure-treated lumber has been a controversial topic for many years. The purpose of chemical pressure treatment is to protect wood from rot, decay, and wood-ingesting insects. Creosote-treated wood is not a good option for vegetable raised beds.

Compared to untreated wood, pressure treated lumber lasts longer and is available at a comparable cost. Some types are specifically treated for ground contact. But keep in mind that even water-based treatments such as ACQ contain the fungicide and pesticide necessary to make it effective. Here are some practices that may address concerns about using it in raised beds.

• Let the wood dry before use. It can take six months or longer for treated lumber to dry.
• You can then use as-is or paint or seal it.
• Line the interior sides of the bed with sheet plastic or pond liner.
• Plant edibles nearer the center of the bed, a few inches away from the wood.
  
  

Guidelines

• Use fasteners and hardware labeled for treated lumber — stainless-steel or hot-dipped, galvanized screws.
• Butt lumber tightly. Pressure treated wood shrinks as it dries.
• Drill pilot holes to prevent splitting when nailing or screwing boards.
• Use wood rated for ground contact when necessary for the project.

Safety

• Wear gloves, a dust mask and eye protection when handling or cutting wood.
• Wash your hands after working with treated wood.
• Dispose of sawdust and waste according to local regulations.
• Don't burn pressure treated wood.
• Don't use pressure treated wood as mulch.