Forum home› Tools and techniques
This Forum will close on Wednesday 27 March, 2024. Please refer to the announcement on the Discussions page for further detail.

raised beds

derbyduckderbyduck Posts: 137
in Tools and techniques

can you use rail sleepers to make raised beds for growing veg?

DD

Posts

  • fidgetbonesfidgetbones Posts: 17,617

    Yes

     

  • hogweedhogweed Posts: 4,053

    I think you may have to be careful if they are covered in creosote.

    'Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement' - Helen Keller
  • fidgetbonesfidgetbones Posts: 17,617

    You can staple a layer of thick plastic compost sacks to the inside to separate creosote or tar from soil.

  • derbyduckderbyduck Posts: 137

    Thanks ...DD

  • TopbirdTopbird Posts: 8,352
    Sorry - have only just found this thread.



    The main problems with sleepers is the creosote content (as pointed out above). Whenever it gets really hot there is risk of preservative oozing out and the sleepers becoming sticky. FB has suggested a way to protect the soil & plants but you still risk brushing against them whenever you're working or harvesting round them. Tar on your clothes is not great & I would still have concerns around leaching into the soil.



    Personally I'd stay clear for this particular use. I wanted a similar look and used pressure treated pine sleepers for mine. They have a pleasant chunky look same as railway sleepers & are strong and durable.
    Heaven is ... sitting in the garden with a G&T and a cat while watching the sun go down
Sign In or Register to comment.