Help building a flower bed
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Jeanette S on May 20, 2013If you have rocky soil and clay, there is no escaping having to dig it out to a depth of several inches...depending on what you plan to plant and ho much you want to build up beds. I DO NOT DIG IF IT CAN BE AVOIDED (see photo of 2 raised bed.) When I make an irregular line of flowers, hubby cuts open the bag of top soil and makes a planting row of about 8" high...plenty deep enough for annuals. However, if you plan to be there a while, use rocks to hold in dirt and pile on good soil. Do yourself a favor and put in a good amount of watering crystals by Miracle Grow...they are fantastic! Well worth the money!Helpful Reply
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Douglas Hunt on May 20, 2013What you describe, Gretchen, is sheet-mulching or lasagna gardening, and, yes, it will work. You'll want to alternate layers of organic material and garden soil to a depth of at least eight inches. Here's a collection of tips for this method of gardening: http://bloomington.in.gov/media/media/application/pdf/4905.pdfHelpful Reply
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Sia@South 47th on May 20, 2013I go with raised beds, made from pallets. They are free, take just a little time to put together and I have wheels on some for rotational purposes. I'm doing that here at the cottage and I did it when I was on 10 acres. They just work out better for me. xoHelpful Reply
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Gretchen Colyer on May 25, 2013Doug thank you for your help. It was exactly what I was looking for.Helpful Reply
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Gretchen Colyer on May 25, 2013Sia and Jeanette thanking you for your input. Raised beds are wonderful. I have built two and really enjoy the final outcome. Thanks again.Helpful Reply
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