Start with compost, add peat, perlite and fertilizer and mix well.

You can buy a big bale of compressed peat and large bag of perlite, depending on how much you need, these could last you quite a few seasons.

The fertilizer could be a slow release formula or a generic all purpose. I add more fertilizer depending on application ( hanging baskets for instance would get a handful more at planting time.

I just get in there with my garden gloved hands and give it a good mixing pulling out any large pieces that need more time to cook in the compost.

Your ratio should be about:

Compost= 60%

Peat= 30%

Perlite=10%

+ a few handfuls or more of fertilizer pending on size of mix.

For more info on composting visit: http://www.sowanddipity.com/the-dirt-on-comp...

all I know is that she collects and shares the most incredible photos of nature and gardening and posts them.

I messaged her to ask for permission to share here which she graciously granted. I hope you enjoy these as much as I did.

Here's her page if you'd like to check it out:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Old-Moss-Woman...

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wondering if I plant something else here will the new plants also look like this? My other plants (fern and hardy cyclamen) ae healthy and untouched. This part of the bed gets filtered morning light-aft. shade, and full evening light. Any suggestions on replacement plants? I would like something around the same height or up to 3 in. higher than the hostas.