I'm starting my first gardening adventure, and I've got a few different setups going on. My husband is trying out straw bale gardening, while I've planned my own raised beds and containers. Here's what I've got in mind for the soil mix:
- For the raised beds, I'm thinking 60% topsoil, 30% compost, and 10% potting mix.
- For the containers, I planned for a mix of 1/3 coconut coir, 1/3 compost, 1/6 vermiculite, and 1/6 perlite.
I originally wrote down these mixes while watching a YouTube video, but I didn't bookmark it and now I can't remember which one it was. I've seen a lot of different advice online about filling beds, and I'm really not sure which direction I should go. By the way, I'm in Zone 6b, if that helps!
2 Answers
When it comes to containers, I'd recommend just using potting mix. For your raised beds, a pre-mixed raised bed soil can work wonders. The truth is, making your own mix from scratch makes sense only if you have materials on hand, like your own compost or topsoil. Otherwise, buying a premixed bag can save you time and effort. Don't stress too much about finding the exact right mix; a good premade option will serve you well. Once the season wraps up, just replenish your beds with compost as it settles down. Lots of options out there!
Just to chime in, I tried mixing my own soil for raised beds once, and honestly, it was a bit of a hassle. The price difference wasn't even that significant compared to just grabbing premixed soil, and it was a chore to mix everything together. From what I've experienced, focusing on the top foot of soil in your raised beds is key. I've used plain topsoil for the bottom and nice mix on top and honestly couldn't tell a difference in plant performance. Keep it simple!
Haha, sounds like mixing my own would be a bit of a nightmare! I was considering getting a kiddie pool to mix it all in, but transportation might be a challenge. LOL!
That makes sense! I was wondering about whether to bother mixing my own too. Seems like a lot of work for not much savings.