Hey there, gardening enthusiasts! I've got an 8x8 raised veggie bed that was framed with cedar, but after years of use, it's finally rotted and needs a replacement. I've been considering replacing it with composite wood, but I came across some info saying it's made from 'food safe recycled plastic.' This got me wondering—is using composite wood actually safe for growing vegetables? I'm leaning towards those frames that just click together since they're easy to set up. What do you think?
2 Answers
Using GRK Stainless structural screws with cedar has worked wonders for me in the past! It’s a quick and easy solution for raised beds.
If the plastic is UV resistant, it should be a decent option. Just keep in mind that all plastics will eventually break down and might release microplastics into your soil. It's all about weighing the risks! Also, plastics can crack more easily than wood or metal if they get hit or during extreme weather, so make sure to look at the durability ratings of the product you choose.
Thanks for the tip! I'll definitely stick with cedar, especially after considering the winter conditions here.