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...

porch. Filled it with mulch and put in concrete pavers for the walkway. Then started planting shrubs and flowers inside the timbers and around the border of it. Made sure they were far enough away from the dogs MAIN area of use. Also put in a concrete fire hydrant for the male dog! Works great, no yellow spots. In the fall we also mulch leaves to put on top then wood mulch on that. Someone told me they decay of leaves helps to keep the smell down, it does work. Also I use the bed for starting shrub cuttings. Everything thrives in the soil. Maybe this will help others with the yellow spot problem. Have not put a roof on the back porch yet, thus the umbrella for the dogs.

emotions. Interesting therapy studies have shown that:

Red was used to stimulate the body and mind and to increase circulation, Yellow was thought to stimulate the nerves and purify the body, Orange was used to heal the lungs and to increase energy levels. Blue was believed to soothe illnesses and treat pain. Indigo shades were thought to alleviate skin problems.

All project photos designed by: BeckySue Becker, Certified Master Kitchen & Bath Designer, CAPS