Hi,

Further to enquiries in uk.d-i-y about protecting my softwood trough
planters from the elements, as well as some special preserver in the
end-grain at the base of the legs (see other thread) I'm thinking of
giving them an all-over coat of Ronseal Garden Furniture Protector -
see http://shortlinks.co.uk/j4t .

Anyone know whether this sort of thing is likely to harm the plants
that end up in the planters? It seems to be mainly white spirit and
waxy stuff, although it does say that "the inclusion of a surface
biocide also ensures that the coating is guarded from mould and algal
growth".

I've got some heavy-duty-polythene liners to contain the compost, with
holes in the bottom for drainage, so in fact the earth should not be
in much contact with the wood, which will hopefully be better for both
wood and earth.

Cheers!

Martin

In article ,
Martin Pentreath writes:
|
| Anyone know whether this sort of thing is likely to harm the plants
| that end up in the planters? It seems to be mainly white spirit and
| waxy stuff, although it does say that "the inclusion of a surface
| biocide also ensures that the coating is guarded from mould and algal
| growth".

That will kill any plant roots that contact it, at least.

| I've got some heavy-duty-polythene liners to contain the compost, with
| holes in the bottom for drainage, so in fact the earth should not be
| in much contact with the wood, which will hopefully be better for both
| wood and earth.

That's probably OK, then.


Regards,
Nick Maclaren.

Hi,

What would be ideal is to find some plastic troughs that slot inside
the wooden ones, they don't have to be an exact fit.

The ends of the legs I'd put in plastic jar lids and top up with clear
wood preserver. Once dry I'd then give the ends a coat of wood stain
or paint.

Milk carton tops (semi skimmed ) fastened to the ends of the legs
with small brass tacks might make ideal feet.

cheers,
Pete.