Knowledgebase
Raised bed; Plantar and Insect questions please #870365
Asked May 28, 2024, 8:58 AM EDT
Ulster County New York
Expert Response
Hello. Thank you for contacting us. If you are using the raised bed for vegetables, you will need to line it completely. If it is only for ornamentals, the treated wood is fine. If you are absolutely sure that the pool liner is not contaminated with pool chemicals, it is an option for a liner. The PVC is fine to use.
As far as the rain barrell is concerned, I would stay away from shellacing it. Again, it might be okay for ornamentals. I would line it with plastic. For both planters, be sure to cut lines in the bottom of the liner to assure proper drainage.
The Red Lily Beetle is what is attacking your lillies. Unfortunately, this is an invasive insect that arrived in Massachusetts about 10 years ago and is now common in our area. They are very difficult to get rid of once you have them. Neem, an extract of the neem tree (Azadirachta indica), will kill young larvae. It should be applied every 5-7 days throughout early summer. Spinosad, an insecticide made from soil bacteria, is also effective if applied weekly whenever the beetles are present.
I hope this has been helpful. George