Garden Soil Retaining Material Ideas
#1
01-07-21, 09:29 PM
Garden Soil Retaining Material Ideas
I am going to extend the 6’ cedar fence around my yard to include a new 8’ x 16’ (128 sq. Ft.) section to create a small vegetable garden. This part of the yard is currently 16”-18” lower than my existing yard. I will need to build something to retain the garden soil in this area. The only thing I have come up with is railroad ties.
First question: Is there something that would be a better solution for this purpose?
Second question: Will the chemicals in the railroad ties adversely effect gardening?
Thanks for your input on this issue. It is greatly appreciated!
Ken
First question: Is there something that would be a better solution for this purpose?
Second question: Will the chemicals in the railroad ties adversely effect gardening?
Thanks for your input on this issue. It is greatly appreciated!
Ken
#3
01-08-21, 06:22 AM
Group Moderator
Lust look online there are hundreds of sites talking about how to make raised bed gardens, what material to use. I would avoid using railroad ties. Most were creosote treated along with other stuff and most these days don't want that touching the soil that grows their food. Some chemicals in the wood may leach into the soil. The same goes for pressure treated lumber.
I framed my raised bed garden with pressure treated lumber but all the beds are lined with 1/4" thick HDPE so the soil never touches the wood. Many people use steel, galvanized steel, plastic, masonry like bricks or concrete blocks, rot resistant woods like redwood or cedar are also an option.
I framed my raised bed garden with pressure treated lumber but all the beds are lined with 1/4" thick HDPE so the soil never touches the wood. Many people use steel, galvanized steel, plastic, masonry like bricks or concrete blocks, rot resistant woods like redwood or cedar are also an option.
