Preparing a New Raised Bed

Preparing a New Raised Bed

Raise the beds via forms or mounding.  Rock lasts longer when making edging for beds or use untreated wood.

Remove weeds and grass to a depth of 1 1/2" to 2".  Apply vinegar or a fatty acid herbicide.  Do not till, it just drives weed roots deeper.

Add topsoil within 6" of grade. Use soil similar to existing soil.

Add compost, not peat moss or bark, to a depth of 4" to 6".

Add rock minerals, granite, green sand, rock phosphate, lava sand and/or other volcanic rock.

Add fertilizer, 2 lbs. per 100 sq. ft. (There is approximately 26 good natural fertilizers) here are 5 favorites:

       Alfalfa 3-1-2        Cow 2-1-1     Rabbit 3-2-1     Poultry 5-3-2    Sheep 5-3-5

Till new soil with compost, rock minerals and fertilizer.

Moisten beds before planting.

Mulch after planting with 2" shredded wood for trees; shredded cedar, compost, leaves, pine needles or shredded wood for shrubs; compost or shredded leaves for annuals and perennials.