Railway Ties in Vegetable Gardens

by Joyce
(Canada)

I've heard that railway ties in vegetable gardens can be dangerous because the chemicals in them leach into the soil. If that's true, what do you suggest as an alternative to making raised beds that won't blow the average family budget?


Hi Joyce,

I have heard both sides of the railway ties issue. So avoid them if you can. But if railway ties best fit your budget, unless you are a purist, I would probably go ahead and use them.

You might also consider 2 x 6 or 2 x 8 lumber (untreated if you are concerned about the chemicals).

One year we found some great cedar boards that someone was giving away that made perfect borders for our raised bed garden.

If you have access to something like Craigslist or even classified ads, check the section on "free if you come pick it up", as sometimes people are giving away materials such as cement blocks, bricks, or wood that can be used for your borders.

Hope this helps!
Charlotte