Specifically, what problems can arise when composting, using plastic bottles as planters or potters, and while using reclaimed lumber in raised beds?
- Composting-
Composting is a great thing to do. You can control what you put into your compost pile as well as determine items you want to keep out.
Problems can arise when you’re a “lazy” composter.
Compost bins and piles should be “turned” often to keep oxygen flowing for the aerobic bacteria that help break down your compost materials.
Not turning may allow anaerobic bacteria to flourish, possibly making your compost unhealthy for some plants and vegetables.
2. Plastic Bottles as Potters-
The type of plastic in your bottle planter could affect your plants and their seeds and fruits. Chemicals in the plastic could leech into the soil and the plant as well.
Consider using “food grade” bottles and buckets that don’t contain BPA an other nasty chemicals
3. Reclaimed Lumber-
Some types of reclaimed lumber have been exposed to known and unknown hazards and chemicals in their lifetime.
For example, reused wood pallets are often used to move caustic items that may have spillage. This spillage (potential noxious chemicals) wouldn’t be known to you.
When using the reclaimed pallet lumber in a planter box, you may not know the effect on your tomato plants and later on the fruits themselves.
Consider using pallets where you know the origin or the company involved (or use new wood or another source of known reclaimed lumber for this purpose)
Look for more gardening tips on the website in the near future!
I hope this helps!
J
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