Safe To Grow Vegetables In Vertical Converted Pallets

Question From: 
Alison Cowan in  Chermside West,  Brisbane QLD

 

Nature of problem: 
Is it safe to grow vegetables in pallets converted to vertical gardens that have been painted using an enamel spray paint? I am concerned if chemicals will leach from the paint into the soil & then into the vegetables. Considered lining the inside of the pallet where the soil will be, with that black plastic liner or even hesian. Any suggestions/advice is much appreciated.

 

Type of Plant (if known): 
Herbs, tomatoes & lettuce

 

Symptoms of Plant Illness (please try NOT to diagnose your problems yourself): 
worried about poisons leaching from the paint

 

Soil Type (e.g. sandy, clay or loam) OR Potting Mix Type: 
potting mix

 

How often do you water the plant:
daily

 

How many hours of sunlight does the plant get each day:
14hrs

 

What type of plant is it:
vegetables

 

How long since you planted it:
havent planted yet

 

Have you fertilised? If so, with what and when:
not yet

 

Is the plant indoors or outdoors: 
outdoors

 

Is the plant in a pot or in the ground: 
vertical garden made out of pallets

 

What other treatments have you given the plant: 
nil

Upload photo if available: 

Other Comments: 

 

Answer: Since the banning of lead based paints well over 30 years ago, painted surfaces are quite safe.  Don