Hi farmgirls...I could use some advice. On our new place, the previous owner used landscape timbers to build a split rail fence (well a pseudo split rail)in the early 80's. I am interest in recyling as always but I am concerned about using the pressure treated wood in my garden. I need to build lots of raised planters. I know that pressure treated wood can contain all sorts of nasty stuff (arsnic). My question is: Do you think that sitting in the hot Texas sun for 20 years could have "bleached" the harmful chemicals away? I am trying to establish everything the green way - is it better to recycle or start over?
I don't know for sure but would think that if the wood is that old it would be okay. You may try checking with your local lumber yard or ask the Master gardener through your county extension office.
"...the setting sun is like going into the very presence of God." Elizabeth Von Arnim
I wouldn't know for sure but if it's that old I would say it's safe to use. If you still want to recycle them maybe use them for flower beds instead of veggies? Just a thought.
I would say that after 20 years they are probably safe. I don't blame you for wanting to recycle lumber. Its very costly. On the bright side, most places sell non-toxic lumber now.
I would check with a lumber yard but my guess is it is still full of arsenic. I agree with Eileen's suggestion. Even if I thought it might be ok I would not use anything that had been pressure treated in my garden.
Arsenic is a heavy metal, and once it's there, it's there (and that includes your very own fat cells). It does leach out of wood since wood is porous. It then will sit in the surrounding soil until taken up by plants. So you NEVER want to use arsenic-treated lumber in or adjacent to areas where you grow food.
I believe the EPA banned the retail sale (you can still buy it for industrial/farm applications - I did last summer) mostly because of arsenic's serious effects on children. Kids love to play in dirt, so they're very much at risk, as are your pets.
If you want to use it, say, for deck joists, make sure you put a tarp down under it to catch all sawdust and dispose of it properly in your garbage. And wear a mask and wash your hands immediately after handling it.
Using this old wood may save you a couple of bucks but give you lifelong health problems you would regret. Be careful.
Pressure Treated Wood??
Posted - Jan 27 2006 : 6:21:29 PM
