Is Concrete Backer Board Safe Planter Material For Herbs And Vegetables

Question From: Issaquah, Washington, United States
Q: Hi, My name is Heather and I am getting ready to build a garden planter for some outdoor benches. I am going to be using concrete backer board as the front of the box, because I will be creating a mosaic on the front. would you recommend wood on the inside if the backer board is not safe for gardening?Would it be a safe material to garden in for herbs, a few veggies and flowers? Thank you in advance if you know it to be a safe material to garden in.
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A: I would contact the manufacturer as I am not familiar with this product. I would build the box in wood and attach the backer board so it has a half inch space or more between it and the box. You will then not have to worry about chemicals leaching into the wood and soil. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy