Preparing Raised Beds

Raised beds are much easier to get ready for replanting than traditional rows, but some work is required. The old plants and any weeds should be pulled. If they are put in a compost pile, it should be hot and the new material should be buried in the center to burn up any pests or diseases. Any remaining mulch can be raked off of the bed into the pathways to deter weed growth there. If this bed had any type of infestation the mulch should either be burned trashed or placed in a hot compost pile.

Next, the bed should be raked smooth. Compost should be added to top the bed up and a thin layer of dirt should be used to cover the compost. If several beds are being prepared at once, dirt can be rotated between the beds, otherwise just throw some dirt in a wheelbarrow before beginning the renewal of the bed. If the bed has not had a major reworking in the past several years and if the soil is getting packed down, it may be good to double dig the bed and add compost in layers. Be sure to note what was done in the garden record.

Finally the garden record should be consulted to see what has been planted in this bed and when. The ph should be checked, noted and modified if necessary. If sulfur or baking soda sprays have been used or if compost has been added the ph will probably have changed since the last use.

David Segrest is an International REALTOR in Charlotte, NC. His email is david@segrestrealty.com , His webpage is http://www.segrestrealty.com , and his international real estate blog is http://dointernationalrealestate.blogspot.com/