Expert: ben johnson - 10/29/2007

Question
I want to use raised beds, mainly for vegetables, but I am unsure about the wood walls.  Autoclaved surrounds are advertised for this purpose but I read this means they are also impregnated with chemicals.  Can I use these?  I would prefer to use them because they come ready made and look better than planks.  Is there otherwise another solution?  Thanks.

Answer
Hello Michael,  I too would worry about the chemical seepage into the groundover time. If looks are important use redwood or a similar long lasting natural wood with no preservatives. Otherwise there are masonry and heavy duty plastic kits available too.