The right soil is the foundation of a successful raised bed. A balanced mix should hold moisture while allowing excess water to drain freely.
A practical soil blend
Combine quality topsoil with mature compost and a light, airy amendment such as aged leaf mold. Compost supplies organic matter, while topsoil provides structure. Avoid using garden soil alone because it can become compacted in a raised bed.
Test before planting
Check the soil texture by squeezing a handful. It should form a loose ball that breaks apart easily. If it stays wet and sticky, add more organic material. If it dries too quickly, increase the compost content and use mulch.
Refresh the bed with compost each season rather than replacing all the soil. This approach supports soil life and keeps the garden productive.
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