new bed dressing

Discussion in 'General Gardening Discussion' started by exlabman, Jan 21, 2011.

  1. exlabman

    exlabman Gardener

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    Hi,
    I started preping a new bed before the snow hit. I got the builders rubble out and old roots.
    The soil is V sandy and the plan was to mix in a trailer load of horse poo now smell free and light as a feather.
    I still plan to do this but the bed is lower than the lawn by quite a margin.
    Should I add some decent shop bought topsoil? If so is any brand/type best for sandy soil?
    Should I mix it in or leave as a top dressing?

    Cheers folks
    D
     
  2. exlabman

    exlabman Gardener

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    No takers for sandy soil improvement tips?
    Just worried about adding stuff that'l just wash out again.

    Cheers
    D
     
  3. Steve R

    Steve R Soil Furtler

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    Will the manure take the level up sufficiently? if so then its job done for now. But eventually that manure will rot down and the level drop once again.

    I have this happen every year here, but I'm happy with that as I add new compost every year as a mulch..this keeps the level topped up and a fresh supply of nutrients for the soil. If you dont think its enough then add some topsoil. I also add to my beds all used compost from hanging baskets, containers/pots and growbags too. You could also "pinch" some topsoil from your other beds too to help fill up this new bed. You wont miss an inch of topsoil from your other beds and you would be surprised how much this will collect for you.

    And yes, dig it all in.

    Steve...:)
     
  4. exlabman

    exlabman Gardener

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    Cheers Steve
    My compost heap is far too new to use. I will lob the compost my rhubarb has been overwintering in soon.

    Thanks
    D
     
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