This method provides nutrient rich soil that is well draining which is a must for raised beds!

Topsoil is about as simple and inexpensive as soil gets. It is a type of fill dirt that can often be home to rocks and other debris. Because you are mixing it with mushroom compost, key nutrients are being added to the topsoil, but it is important to remove any rocks or debris that could alter the drainage or overall quality of the mixture.

If you’re looking for a surefire way to guarantee plant growth, and budget is of no concern, the deluxe soil mixture may be what you’re looking for. This mixture is comprised of one part vermiculite, one part peat moss and one part compost. The benefits? Great drainage and no weeds!

Vermiculite is a game-changer for soil. Using it as an additive helps move water and air around the soil, allowing nutrients and water to reach the roots where they’re needed most.

Peat moss is acidic, which means acid-loving plants like marigolds, sweet potatoes, peppers and more will thrive when planted in it. Important to note: peat moss compresses easily, which can smother roots and retain too much water. Mixing with vermiculate prevents this from happening.

You may think you understand compost now, but here’s another one of its wonderful assets. Compost has an alkaline pH, meaning it balances out the acidity of the peat moss while adding key nutrients to the mixture. You can adjust how much of each you put into your mixture to accommodate different plants.

This mixture is all about the layers. By using one part grass, two parts leaves and covering them with a layer of cardboard, you are beginning your very own composting process beneath the soil.

Soil, grass clippings, dead leaves and cardboard. You may not think this is going anywhere, but when you combine these elements properly, magical things start to happen in your raised beds.

Begin your “lasagna gardening” technique by adding a thin layer of leaves. You’ll want just enough leaves to cover the bottom of the bed, but not enough to start a pile.

Once the leaves are down, spread about half as much grass on the top of the leaves to fill in the gaps.

Recycled cardboard makes a perfect barrier for weeds and adds to the composting process by slowly decomposing over time.

Here’s where the actual soil comes into play. Fill the entirety of the bed with standard garden soil, leaving about one-inch between the top of the soil and the lip of the bed. You can buy garden soil in bags, but if you have access to a truck or trailer, we recommend going the local route and buying in bulk.