Question
Are there nontoxic stains that would be safe for wood planters in a veggie garden?
I purchased untreated Douglas fir with the intention of building a raised vegetable garden but I later found out that untreated Douglas fir is not very rot-resistant. What can I use to protect the wood so that it doesn't decay too fast (I'd like it to last at least two years)? Are there any sort of nontoxic stains or other treatments that would be okay for wood surrounding a veggie garden?
Answer
I recommend using SoyShield Premium stains and sealers. They are bio-based, nontoxic sealers made from soybeans. Due to the nontoxic nature of the formula, hazardous chemicals will not leach into the garden.
The sealer comes in several colors: clear, honey, cedar, redwood, and walnut. Coat all six sides of the wood for maximum protection. This will keep water out and help prevent rot and decay.
For more information: For further advice on building safe and durable garden planters, read Polly Osborne's Ask A Pro Q&A article "Can you suggest an alternative to pressure-treated wood for garden borders and raised planters?"
