Our products are made from ACQ-treated pine (Alkaline Copper Quaternary)—a safe, arsenic-free alternative to traditional CCA-treated timber and is approved for use in government schools and childcare centres. ACQ-treated pine offers peace of mind while being a durable and long-lasting choice for food gardens.

Additionally, our garden bed design features a plastic tub, meaning the potting mix isn't in contact with the timber. This not only adds an extra layer of protection but also extends the lifespan of the timber frame.

Because ACQ-treated pine is not readily available in retail stores, we have it custom ordered for our garden beds.

ACQ-Treated Pine - The Modern Alternative

'Burke’s Backyard' recommends the use of ACQ-treated pine for gardeners concerned about older arsenic-based treatments - even in applications where the soil is in contact with the timber:

"Treated pine is safe to use in gardens, but if you are worried about the old-style arsenic-treated pine, the new stuff – ACQ treated pine – is arsenic-free and becoming easier to find."
Read more from Burke’s Backyard

APVMA: CCA-Treated Pine can be used in Vegetable Gardens

Although we choose the arsenic-free alternative ACQ-treated pine for our products, according to the Australian Government Authority - the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA), CCA-treated pine can be used for vegetable gardens.

The APVMA says:

"CCA-treated timber can leach small amounts of arsenic into the soil, but plants and vegetables are not likely to take up significant amounts unless grown in highly acidic soils."
Read the full APVMA article here