Today we’re diving into a project I promised myself I wouldn’t do—adding another bed to my garden. Despite my initial hesitation, my plant addiction and evolving focus on growing diverse fruits, medicinal plants, and unique herbs compelled me to expand. In this post, I’ll guide you through the simple and budget-friendly process of filling a raised bed.
I recently acquired a galvanized steel 8×4-foot bed, which I found at a reasonable price. Now, let’s embrace the expansion of the garden and get started on filling this new bed inexpensively.
Setting up the Bed:
- Cardboard Layer: Start by filling the bottom of the bed with cardboard. Utilize cardboard from various sources, like Amazon boxes (remove non-recyclable tape). Multiple layers are beneficial, and Amazon boxes are ideal due to their recyclability.
- Branches and Debris: Add dead branches, tree trimmings, and any organic debris you have. This provides structure and aids in aeration.
- Unfinished Compost: If you have unfinished compost, add it next. While some may avoid this, I find it beneficial for long-term nutrient availability. The compost will continue to break down beneath the surface.
- Used Soil: Empty pots of dead plants into the bed. This serves as a form of fill dirt and introduces additional organic matter.
- Composted Mulch: For the bulk of the filling, use composted wood mulch. If available locally, check for composted mulch programs or use services like Chip Drop to get wood chips.
- Amendments: Address nutrient needs by adding amendments. In this instance, mycorrhizae, Tomatotone, and Kelp meal were applied to enhance microbial activity and boost nitrogen and potassium levels.
- Top Layers: Complete the filling with store-bought compost or any nutrient-rich topsoil you prefer. Due to the bed’s initial settling, planting can be delayed until it stabilizes.
- Mulch Cover: Finally, cover the bed with mulch, using leaf litter collected from your yard during the fall or small wood chips. This helps retain moisture and prevents weed growth.
Cost Breakdown:
- Bed cost: $59 (on sale)
- Composted wood mulch: Free (composted mulch program)
- Mycorrhizae, tomato tone, kelp meal: Leftovers from previous projects
- Black Cow compost bags: $30 (for three bags)
- Leaf litter: Free
Total Cost: $89
While the bed wasn’t entirely filled in this round, additional compost and Black Cow can be added later to top it off. Remember, you can customize this process based on available materials and local resources. Feel free to explore alternative composting methods or locally sourced materials to further reduce costs. Thanks for joining me on this garden expansion journey, and happy gardening!
