Sealant recommendations for pine raised planter boxes?

[a586]

Hi everyone!

I need help figuring out what sealant (or other product) to use for my DIY raised planter boxes I've made from a heat-treated pine crate. I'd like to coat the wood with something that prevents rot, mold and other issues that come with prolonged water exposure to wood. Any ideas?

Because it's a veggie-patch, I'd like to try and find a solution that is food-safe, so that the veggies growing in the boxes don't soak up any chemicals that we will then eat... any help would be appreciated!!

[EricL]

Hello @a586 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about sealing your pine wood planter. 

I suggest raw linseed oil (not boiled linseed oil, which can contain solvents). It takes longer to cure but is entirely food-safe and has been used for a long time to seal wooden planters and kitchen items. Just be aware it needs reapplying more often.

For added durability without soil contact, consider lining the interior with plastic sheeting (like builder’s plastic) with small drainage holes at the bottom. This creates a barrier between the moist soil and wood while preventing waterlogging and extending the life of your planter box. My only other suggestion is to use bricks as footing for the planter box so that it will not have direct contact with the soil.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric