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Organic Gardening

what to line organic garden bed with to keep it organic???

11 years ago

My handyman just built me several raised garden beds. HOWEVER... he painted the bottom wood (both sides)with primer! What can I line on the bottom to prevent any chemicals from seeping into my dirt? I survived cancer last year and I desperately trying to minimize my exposure to chemicals.
thanks you so much,
Tiffany

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Comments (9)

RpR_
11 years ago
Go to your doctor and ask him if this is a problem.
nc_crn
11 years ago
Agriculture/food plants rarely uptake chemical contaminates or toxic substances with the exception of selenium and arsenic...neither of which are an issue with primer.

I'd be more concerned about the bottom of your beds being contained by wood blocking plant roots from reaching the soil underneath (unless they're 2-3 foot deep) and possible water drainage issues. That's a plant health issue more than a toxicity issue, though.
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wayne_5 zone 6a Central Indiana
11 years ago
I have gotten the impression that the bottom is open and that the painted boards are edging boards. Right,?
Kimmsr
11 years ago
Paints, manufactured today, are inert when dry. Old school though was that painting wood with a primer would help keep it in better condition longer, but research has shown this to be not true. What your handiman did was waste some of your money but he did not create conditions that are likely to be harmful to you.
tiffanyhod
Original Author
11 years ago
THank you SO much for your replies. Regarding the bottom of the garden boxes... I should have specified....
The painted wood is alson on the BOTTOM of the 12" garden box. I have the boxes on a base with wheels so I can move it out of the way when I need to. These specific boxes will be used to start out seedlings (I have dome covers for them.) Soo..... is it a problem to have the bottom of the garden box in contact with wood that has been painted with primer?

Thank you in adavance for your time...
RpR_
11 years ago
What did he actually use for paint?

IF it is oil based it will last a long time.
If it is water based, the only thing you have to worry about is the wood rotting.

I do not paint wood that goes in the ground but I used to soak it in old motor oil and that last a long time.
Kimmsr
11 years ago
It will not be a problem to have that wood in contact with something that has been painted with primer. Now soaking wood in motor oil was and is a problem.
zzackey
11 years ago
I don't think your doctor will know the answer. Your local agricultural center would be the one to ask.
rosiew
11 years ago
tiffany, You were smart asking this question and I agree with the others that nothing harmful will be transmitted to the root systems. Plus, seedlings roots will never grow to an appreciable depth. Would love to know more about the domes you'll be using if you have time to share.

I'd guess you're examining lots of things you come into contact with now. That's wise.

Merry Christmas Eve,
Rosie

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