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Square Foot Gardening

what to make the box out of?

15 years ago

Hi: I have read some discussion about this before but still haven't made up my mind. I am about to make my first 4'X 8' box using 1"X 8" lumber. I don't feel like using treated wood due to wanting to avoid chemicals. I wonder if it is worth the extra expense of using cedar versus spruce. The cost of the cedar is double that of the spruce. Is the cedar more resistant to rot or termites? With either wood is there smething I should coat it with like linseed oil? Thanks for any advice with these questions.

Paul

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Comments (3)

garycinchicago
15 years ago
Also softwoods, like pines, both cedar and redwood are naturally the most rot resistant woods available. Twice the initial expense yes, but 3 to 5 times the life expectancy in the elements, give or take.

Cedar is also an aromatic wood that natural resists some insects. Think cedar closets / trunks.

Boiled linseed oil would be nice on the cedar for aesthetics and perhaps offer a little more effectiveness over its natural ability.

All depends on your time frame. If you plan on never moving then the plastic composite lumbers like 'Trex' is the way to go.
pvel
Original Author
15 years ago
Thanks Gary. I built the box of cedar as above. It looks great and I can't wait for my new garden to get going. Paul
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garycinchicago
15 years ago
You are welcome, Paul.

How about some pics of your handy work when you get settled?

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