Does pressure treated lumber hurt plants?

Answer 1

Pressure-treated lumber can potentially harm plants due to the chemicals used in the treatment process, particularly older treatments containing chromated copper arsenate (CCA). These chemicals can leach into the soil, affecting plant growth and health. However, newer treatments use less harmful substances, and generally, properly sealed pressure-treated lumber poses minimal risk to plants. It's advisable to use a barrier, like landscaping fabric, when planting near pressure-treated wood to mitigate any potential impact.