Question About Soil Creation -
I put together one of three raised garden beds last weekend. This one is for blueberries.
Since I don't have a truck, I had to "create" the soil on top of my sod. (I laid down two layers of cardboard before the soils.)
I mixed peat, garden soil and top soil - some organic, some not. And a little sulphur (to lower the ph).
I have not planted the blueberry bushes yet -- probably won't for another two weeks or more until the soil ph is correct.
My question is, Do I HAVE to get some "native" soil mixed in? Again, I don't have a truck and the native soil is the stickiest and thickest clay ever.
I appreciate your insight.
2
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3 comments
Feel free to reply to any comment by clicking the "Reply" button.Consider a compost pile. I have been using one for 40 years. I get 1 big load a year but it adds up. Add your coffee grounds, leaves (chopped is best), grass clippings from the mower, kitchen scraps (no meat or bones. Takes too long to de-compose.) Get it wet and wait. Helps to turn it over occasionally, if you have a strong back. Not required. Search the internet for 'compost pile.' I call it my "Black Gold."
JoplinAtheist1
Level 6
Aug 15, 2018
1
Thanks! I read quite a bit about it today. I really like the idea, but I think I decided to tackle just one gardening type project for the next several months -- getting the gardens in. I will buy some compost for now.
Before I jump into making my own, I need to do more research. I have a smallish yard, so it would have to be the bin type. I also like the idea of turning the bin rather than shoveling it to turn it. 
You don't need native soil, especially if it is not very good. Much better to create your own better quality soil.
CeliaVL
Level 7
Aug 15, 2018
2
Any hints along those lines? I snagged a bag of coffee grounds from work today. Apparently, it lowers sulfur which the blueberries need.
But, I'm also going to make two other beds for vegetables and melons.
@BlueWave Are you able to make your own compost? I am addicted to making compost and when I was in full flow I used everything I could get my hands on - all vegetable matter from my house, garden weeds and grass mowings, shredded paper, etc. I don't like closed containers, but if you are in a densely populated area and have only a small garden you may have to use one. Moisture, warmth, and an activator (urine is excellent) help a lot.
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