Question
I recently bought a house that is using railroad ties to frame the garden. I am wondering about the effect the kreosote has on the soil. Doe enough leach into the soil to cause concern?
Thank you for your time.
Mark

Answer
Dear Mark:

More than likely the railroad ties were treated with a wood preservative of some type and possibly creosote. I would be very cautious about consuming vegetables that grew near chemically treated wood. Suggest you check the site listed below:

http://www.preservedwood.com/safety/epa_creo.html

Regards,

Mack Jean
AllExperts
Master Gardener
Tennessee