Noctaire wrote:

All -- I'm looking to build a wall to hold back the hill, frame up a new
patio, etc.. I'll also be making some planting beds with thes same
materials. The idea is to use 6x6 beams, much like one sees on many of the
landscape shows.

I was looking about at my local Home Depot today and came across their 6x6s.
A thought came to me -- treated lumber contains a variety of chemicals that
are not the most friendly. Anybuddy know what type of wood, treatments,
painting/staining, etc. I should be looking at for this task?

Noc.

Suggest you consider another, more permanent material for your wall. Even
treated landscape timbers will decompose over a period of time, jeopardizing the
integrity of the wall. Seems like too much work and expense just to have to
re-do after 10 years or so. While you're at it, the same material could be used
to make raised beds - something like a dry stack stone. This would eliminate any
concerns for toxic compounds leaching into planting areas, as well as tie the
various elements of your garden together. A similar or complimentary type of
flagstone could be used for your new patio. All you need to frame up a flagstone
patio is a flexible metal edging material, available at most landscape supply
outfits.

pam - gardengal