I want to build raised beds but am unable to afford Cedar and other natural bug resistant woods. My question is WILL THE RECYCLED PLASTIC BOARDS WORK? I wonder mostly about them leaching anything into the soil. Any Suggestions?

If $ is the issue the 100% recycled plastic lumber is very expensive and is expensive to ship. The 100% polypropolene kind (SP?) is made of milk jug plastic and is wonderful stuff. I've used it for one garden area. The kind Home Depot and Lowes carry is another type, a mixture of wood and resin (composit), that is not rated for ground contact. If you decide to go plastic lumber I can offer some construction tips. Let us know what you decide. Good luck!

Where do you get the recycled plastic "boards"?
I am still looking for something for my bed.

You can buy kits from RPM (Recycled Plastics Marketing). They are located in WA. Call 1-800-867-3201 and ask for a catalog. These kits are expensive, but they do ship free. I ordered boards by the foot from a factory. USPL, 1-312-491-2500. Ask for information and a price list. You have to machine the stuff yourself, provide fasteners, and pay shipping costs. They are in Chicago. Let me know if you need more information. It is great stuff, just wish it was cheaper and that local stores sold it!!! Good luck.

the recycled marketing has a web site, www.rrpm.com
you are correct it is expensive but looks really nice!
Thanks

If price is a big issue, you might think about using plain old untreated pine. I've been using it for years. It's the only thing I had access to the first time I built raised beds. It took about 4 years before the corners rotted out and even then the sides were still good, I just patched it up a little. Since I'm starting over in a new garden on a very limited budget, I'll be doing the same thing again. Maybe by the time these rot out, I can afford something that lasts longer. Spending $5 for 2x6's sure beats the alternative.

Here in central Fl. the wood only lasts a few years. We have replaced the wood, yellow pine and some used roof lumber (of assorted type), several times as it was always the cheapest way to go. BUT it got to the point that it added up, to say nothing of the labor required. DH was a cabinet maker and his wood projects have to be just so. The plastic wood doesn't rot, decay, split, or grow mildew. The kits are guaranteed for 50 years, and the "lumber" we bought is made of the same stuff. We need to do another area, 33'x25', and I'm wanting to go plastic again. DH is balking at the cost. Time will tell.....