Termite-proofing redgum?

 I want to build some raised veggie beds, and refer to avoid treated pine.  I
thought redgum "sleepers" might be good (not actual sleepers, but the planks
about 200mm high by 75mm), but I am a bit concerned about them succumbing to
termites.  Is there any non-toxic preparation I can treat them with before
putting the soil in?

 Hi Pat,

There is a product called graniteguard used to deter termites. Apparently
termites hate granite and will avoid it at all costs.

There is a product available from landscaping centres called granite dust,
cracker dust etc etc. Used by paving companies to put Pavers on. It is the
fines and dust left from the blue metal used in making roads. It is cheap to
buy and should do the job.

I would put down a footing that goes beyond the size of your planks/sleepers
and then lay them on top in the centre.

Creosote is another thing used but is messy to deal with and contains a few
nasties. Not so crash hot around veges.

Sold here in WA is a product celled Termimesh. Is a stainless steel mesh
barrier of a certain micron measurement. It stops the termites from entering
because the holes are smaller diameter then the termite is. But is expensive
I would think.

I like the idea of corrugated iron rings as raised beds. Two straight sides
and the ends curved. Only 1.5-2 metres across so you can reach the middle of
the bed comfortably and as long as you like.

Cheers

Richard

 

Hi, the reason the granite fines works is because it is graded (screened or
sieved) to a specific size such that the interstitial space is too small for
the termites to fit through, and the product is hard and they therefore
cannot chew through it. Typically, smaller particles of crushed rock
(dependant to a large extent upon the type of crushing equipment used) tend
to be flacky and sharp edged. Basalt, andersite or any other hard rock will
achieve the same result if of the correct size. You are creating a barrier
similar the the stainless mesh mentioned.

 

Apparently

Brilliant! I had thought it was to do with the chemical makeup but that is
so logical.

Cheers

Richard

 g'day pat,

you don't say where you are from but if the red gum you talk of is the
same as waht we call qld blue gum then it is pretty much termite proof
itself once the sap has dried out of it, and using it as edging it
will last a long time, me i would go for the sleeper size wood in 6
meter lengths it is self supporting and will take a whole lot longer
to begin to break down, we had some still going strong after 8 years
on the ground.

an easier to way to ensure protection maybe would be to get that
aussie made timber/metal protector made from wool greas (lanolin) it
has a good reputation, and a wide application of uses around the home.

like i said i wouldn't worry about the termites too much there is
bound to be easeir stuff for them to chew on around the place.

you can get the timber kiln dried pay a bit extra but that will remove
sap moisture from the wood and minimise shrinkage.

that termite granite barriere needs to be compacted for it to work,
you would also be looking at creating a 300mm x 300mm barrier under
the area the timber is being used, much the same with cracker dust,
and they both work better in dry zone areas, so not sure that they
would be as effective in a wet zone area?


snipped
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len

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