I'm setting up a new 8x4x2 galvanized steel raised garden bed and have gotten some great advice already. I plan to put wire mesh at the bottom to keep out rodents and add branches to fill up space. I'll then fill it with a mix of soil and compost to about 1.5 feet deep, leaving the top half foot for plant growth. My question is: is it okay to use pine branches for this purpose, or will they make the soil too acidic? I have several pine branches on hand, but I'm worried that the sap might negatively affect the veggie roots since I plan to grow tomatoes, eggplants, zucchinis, peas, beans, and squash.
2 Answers
If your pine branches are fresh, just make sure to have enough soil to separate them from your plants. As they break down, they can steal nitrogen from the soil, which your plants need. Mixing in some peat moss or coco coir into your soil can help with this too!
Actually, it’s a common myth that pine needles cause acidic soil. Even if they did, many plants actually prefer slightly acidic soil! Just be careful not to layer too thickly as the branches will take a long time to decompose. I’d recommend about 6 inches of branches followed by your soil mix. Feel free to fill it up to the top—the soil settles over time, and having more soil will benefit your plants with better sunlight and airflow.
Thanks so much! I’m glad to hear they won’t just end up in the yard waste dump. I’ll definitely fill it to the top, though I know it’ll be pricey. I plan on recycling soil from my old beds and then topping off with fresh stuff. Appreciate your help!
Plus, many people have hard water, so a little acidity in the soil can help balance that out!
Thanks! I added the branches to save space, but now I’m a bit concerned about the nitrogen levels. I guess I’ll have to watch how they break down!