Raised beds, Cedar or untreated

[DirtBag]

I'm looking at wood for some raised beds.

Cedar 2x8's are 3x the cost untreated 2x8's. So, I'm wondering, how long might untreated lumber last when it's used in raised beds? In direct contact with the soil/elements. 2 years? 3 years? 10 years?

(I'm assuming ACQ, non arsenic treated lumber is still considered a no- no)?

thanks

[sockiescat]

[Billy]

Many people wonder about the safety of using pressure treated wood raised garden beds to grow vegetables or fruits. A study conducted by University of Minnesota found that vegetable crops grown in CCA-framed garden beds can accumulate arsenic from treated wood, but based on U.S. Public Health Standards, these vegetables would be safe for human consumption. To be on the safe side, you can line garden beds made of CCA-treated wood with plastic sheeting on the base and sides of the bed to separate the wood from the soil. For more information, see:

and think most Americans believe that U.S. Public Health Standards are more corporate friendly than people friendly. The plastic liner would be a real pain to have to repair or replace, but it seems do-able.

[brooklyn1]

Leevalley.com sells a system that incorporates paving blocks, were I to build a raised bed today that's what I'd use.

[Bill who putters]

[David Hare-Scott]

It depends very much on the type of timber and to a lesser degree your soil and climate. Some like radiata pine would be lucky to last 2 years untreated unless you live in a desert. OTOH some timbers are used for fenceposts (or wharf pylons) and are expected to last 40 years. Around here such are varieties of eucalyptus which are probably not available where you are but there may be local timbers that will do the job. There is a grading system for timber properties which includes durability in contact with the soil, talk to your timber merchant about it.

David

[Charlie]

Charlie

[Dan L.]

What about composite decking boards?

Enjoy Life... Dan

[Charlie]

I think they would be great for raised beds.

Charlie

[Billy]

Just need to put the posts a little closer together bscause they bend easily.

[Higgs Boson]

[gloria.p]

You didn't read it carefully. The fasteners are what they sell. Early in the description they say something like "Lumber and paving blocks not included." You buy those locally.

gloria p

[Billy]

Bim-batta-boom.