Is Hardware Cloth Safe to Use in a Garden? - Ask Extension
I am installing a raised (metal) garden bed soon. I wondered if using hardware cloth to prevent voles and other predators from digging below the bed, ...
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Is Hardware Cloth Safe to Use in a Garden? #787473
Asked April 20, 2022, 9:51 PM EDT
I am installing a raised (metal) garden bed soon. I wondered if using hardware cloth to prevent voles and other predators from digging below the bed, is safe. Would there be a concern for heavy metals or other dangerous substances in the hardware cloth, or would this be safe to use?
Wicomico County Maryland
Expert Response
Hi- there are many types of welded and mesh wire materials available. Hot-galvanized hardware cloth has a zinc coating. We are not aware of any research studies that suggest risks to plants or animals from zinc, or other metals (small amounts of lead are used in some processes), leaching from the wire to the soil.
The wovenwire.com website has lots of information on manufacturing standards- Hot-dipped galvanized metal
Depending on the process used, company, and country of origin it is possible for lead to be present- typically at very low levels. You can look online for the Material Safety Data Sheet for any wire products you are considering.
Electrogalvanized wire may have lower heavy metal levels than hot-galvanized wire but will corrode more quickly.
Stainless steel hardware cloth is more expensive than galvanized hardware cloth and would have the lowest heavy metal risks.
Jon
The wovenwire.com website has lots of information on manufacturing standards- Hot-dipped galvanized metal
Depending on the process used, company, and country of origin it is possible for lead to be present- typically at very low levels. You can look online for the Material Safety Data Sheet for any wire products you are considering.
Electrogalvanized wire may have lower heavy metal levels than hot-galvanized wire but will corrode more quickly.
Stainless steel hardware cloth is more expensive than galvanized hardware cloth and would have the lowest heavy metal risks.
Jon
