I'm setting up some new raised beds this year, and my local nursery has a special blend they're suggesting. I'm curious if it compares to Mel's Mix or could be a solid alternative for Square Foot Gardening. Their mix contains 30% pine bark, 45% ferticomp (compost), 20% hardwood fines, and 5% sand, with a pH of 6-6.5. They also suggest blending in Happy Frog Soil Conditioner. I think the high compost content might make it somewhat similar to Mel's Mix, but I'm concerned about the lack of vermiculite. What do you all think? Will this mix work well, or are there some major downsides I should be aware of compared to Mel's Mix?
2 Answers
That mix is a bit heavy on the wood, which may not provide accessible nutrients for a couple of years. Plus, it can tie up nitrogen while breaking down. Personally, I've used Mel's Mix and find it superior because it’s like a DIY potting soil that you can tweak for your climate. The compost offers a range of nutrients, and the peat moss or coco coir retains moisture better. Just make sure the compost is high quality. From my experience, my Mel's Mix beds are thriving, while my other soil mix isn’t performing as well.
Mel's Mix is a great guideline, but you don't have to stick strictly to it. If you want to splurge on that custom blend, go for it! Just remember that adding vermiculite or perlite will help if your mix is lacking those. Overall, what you have should work just fine for your raised beds.