Lowery Property Management

It’s crucial to clarify that “treated wood chips” are NOT recommended for use in garden beds when growing edible plants. 

The term likely refers to wood chips from treated lumber, which is wood preserved with chemicals to prevent rot and insect infestation. While this treated lumber is used in construction, it’s not intended to be turned into mulch or used in garden beds, particularly vegetable gardens, because the chemicals can leach into the soil. 

Here’s why using treated wood chips in your garden is generally discouraged:

1. Chemical Concerns:
   • Treated lumber contains preservatives that can leach into the soil over time, potentially affecting soil health and plant growth.
   • Older treated wood, especially that treated with chromated copper arsenate (CCA), poses a higher risk of arsenic leaching into the soil, raising health concerns.
   • Even newer treatments, though considered safer, can still leach chemicals like copper into the soil.
2. Environmental Concerns:
   • The leaching of chemicals can also have negative environmental impacts, potentially affecting water sources and other organisms.
   • Disposal of treated wood chips is also problematic, as they should not be burned or composted due to the presence of chemicals. 

Alternatives to Wood Chips from Treated Lumber:

• Untreated Wood Chips:
  • If you want to use wood chips, choose untreated hardwood chips from non-toxic species.
  • Ensure they are aged or composted to reduce the risk of nitrogen depletion in the soil. 
• Other Organic Mulches:
  • Consider alternatives like straw, shredded leaves, grass clippings, compost, or cocoa hulls, which decompose and enrich the soil.