Adding Compost to Your Raised Bed Garden: Benefits and Best Times To Do It.
Compost is a great addition to any raised bed. It adds valuable nutrients and improves the soil structure. Adding compost at any time of year can be beneficial, but when is the best time?
Adding compost in December or January will not wash away the benefits as the nutrients are not soluble like typical NPK salts. Many gardeners add their compost in spring after everything thaws out and it can be mixed into the soil. Others top off their raised beds with compost and mulch after they clean them out in the fall so they are ready to go in the spring. If weeds are not heavy then there is no need to turn the soil either.
When adding compost, half of the positive effect is on the structure of the soil while the other half is from adding nutrients. If you don't want to use other fertilizers, it's better to add it before seeding or planting whatever you grow. However, if you have some extra time, adding compost whenever is good too.
The type of mulch used also matters. Fine pine shavings from Tractor Supply Company make for a good mulch. Some people claim wood should not be used as mulch but many gardeners have been using wood chips, sawdust, pine shavings etc for over 25 years with no ill effects. For those who get a lot of rain, nutrition might get washed away so more frequent additions of compost may be necessary.
In conclusion, adding compost at any time throughout the year can be beneficial for your raised bed gardens. The amount added depends on personal preference and climate conditions.If you are looking for a quick fix, adding compost in the spring is best. If you have more time and want to get the most out of your raised bed gardens, add it whenever possible.
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When is the best time to add compost to a raised bed?
Anytime is suitable for adding compost, but it's better to add it before you seed or plant whatever you grow. You can also top off your raised beds with compost and mulch after cleaning them out in the fall.
If I add compost in December or January will the benefits of the compost get washed away by the rain?
The nutrients don't get washed out, they are not soluble like typical NPK salts.
Do I need to turn the soil if there are no weeds?
No, you don't need to turn the soil if there are no weeds.
What mulch do you use?
I use fine pine shavings from Tractor Supply Company. Some people claim you shouldn't use wood as mulch but I've been using wood chips, sawdust, pine shavings, etc. for over 25 years in my gardens with no ill effects.
How often should I add compost?
I add some compost about every time I plant or seed. In general I add the most in the spring while prepping beds, or in the fall when they are done.
Is there any difference between climates when adding compost?
If you get a lot of rain, your nutrition might get washed away. It's better to add fertilizer other than all purpose 10-10-10 when re-upping the beds with compost. You can also use organic fertilizers like fish emulsion or seaweed extract.
Is there a way to make sure the compost is evenly distributed?
Yes, you can use a rake or hoe to spread the compost out evenly. You can also use a garden tiller to mix it into the soil.
What should I do if I want to add compost but don't have any?
You can buy compost from your local garden center, or you can make your own. To make your own compost, you'll need to collect organic matter such as leaves, grass clippings, and food scraps. Put them in a compost bin and let them decompose for several months before adding it to your raised beds.
Is there anything else I should know about adding compost to raised beds?
Make sure the compost is well-rotted before adding it to your raised beds. If you add fresh compost, it can rob the soil of nitrogen as it decomposes. Additionally, make sure the compost is free of weed seeds and disease organisms.