Improved Raised Bed Gardening Soil Formula And More

By Andrew Cowell

When you've finished building your raised bed either from a kit or from scratch, you'll be ready to start raised bed gardening. Though your chosen spot might be looking a little empty right now, there are plenty of things you can do to populate your garden with beautiful plants and make sure that those plants stay alive for a long time.

Using proper soil, watering carefully and maintaining your garden to prevent disease and weeds will do a lot to keep your garden looking fresh and clean.

Being Careful About pH Levels

There are numerous soil packages available from every store under the Sun, but my personal favorite is a bit more down to earth. Try this simple recipe: mix one quarter yard soil with a solution of compost and sand. This unique combination will provide a great starting point for your bed. Also watch your pH levels. If they're too high, nothing will grow.

Keeping Weeds Down

The configuration of your raised bed garden on a physical level should be enough to ward off weeds, but if some start to get in, don't take it too hard. Simply drop some organic mulch over the top and use weed guarding items. If, after this step, weeds still insist on coming back, you can remove them by hand. It's not overly difficult. Put some more mulch on top to block them from sunlight. This is an ongoing battle, so you're going to see good and bad days.

Use Right Amounts Of Water

Manual watering is the way to go, making sure to hit the areas where your plants are inserted into the soil rather than the surrounding areas. If you feel extravagant, pick up an easy irrigation system with a drip technology that will keep your plants happy. Overhead watering is dangerous, as your plants can easily remain wet for too long and end up succumbing to disease. Water your plants decently, but don't hose them.

Simple To Maintain

Raised bed gardening is particularly attractive to busy people because they require precious little in the way of real maintenance. If yours is made of brick and mortar, go out and kick it every now and then to make sure it won't fall over, and that's about it. Make sure to water your plants and turn the soil over periodically. Add in a little organic material here and there.

If your garden starts to show signs of disease, empty it immediately and throw some new soil inside for your plants. As a side note, even if your bed is built with brick and mortar, make sure to check it regularly to make sure it's standing steady.

There's no doubt that the low maintenance side of raised bed gardening is appealing, but even better is the amazing display when your flowers and vegetables come to fruition. Your yard will absolutely glow, and so will you as your beautiful bed will attract well deserved attention from passing individuals. - 31813

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