Justin Hughes wrote:

I am planning to make a raised flowerbed, surrounded by lengths of
timber logs. I have a couple of small apple trees in the garden, which
should provide about half the wood a need, but I will need to buy some
more. Any ideas who would sell these? Local garden centre couldn't
help.

I particularly want logs with the bark on and about 2-3 inches in
diameter. I know everywhere sells those log-like borders, but I am
looking for the natural effect. I am based in Berkshire if that helps.

Also once I have made this, can anyone suggest a way of preserving the
timber? how long is it likely to be before an untreated log loses it's
bark and then rots?

Justin.. take a look in your local phone book under 'tree surgeons' and
arboriculture.. They almost always have excess logs to get rid of
either for free or for beer money.;-)

As for how long untreated wood will last it will depend on the
conditions its used in, and the type of wood.
//
Jim