soil mix

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plance Pierson, FL May 11, 2007

After several years of failed attempts at a veg garden I am going to try again. I believe the soil is bad ( since the county said is was). So, I have decied to replace it. I have 8 beds that are 5' x 10' and I have done some reading and I have called a few local garden / landscape stores. My new plan is to use a mix of

50% mushroom compost
30% peat moss (spag)
20% coarse sand (builders)

Can someone tell me the good and bad parts of this idea? I'd really appreciatre any and all comments
If youhave a better idea for a soil mix I'd be interested in hearing that to.


Thanks
Patti

Post #3487822
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Len123 Adrian, MO(Zone 6a) May 12, 2007

you don't have any soil. the best thing to do would be to have a soil test done by your county extension service, fiteen to twenty dollars I would guess and go from there.
your soil couldn't be that bad I hope. the test will tell you what u have and how to amend it.
would be a heck of a lot cheaper than starting over. I'm sure u have something in your soil worth keeping.

Post #3488995
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plance Pierson, FL May 12, 2007

I have had the county test it and it is void of any nutrients as well as being a source of soil bourne disease. The soil that was in the raised beds has been removed and now I have completely empty beds. I have done some research and have a few recipes for soil mix which I am having to modify due to money issues and materials that are available to me.

BTW the soil tests through our county are only 3$ per sample. Not a bad deal although it did add up.

Post #3489645
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Len123 Adrian, MO(Zone 6a) May 13, 2007

so sorry to hear that. $3 per sample seems to be very reasonable.
I know bagged soil would be very cost prohibitive, is there anyone who sells a good topsoil by the dumptruck load? (maybe you might want to have a sample done)
I think if you have to mix it yourself I would think you would need along with your sand, some silt and clay for texture, and your organic material for nutrients.

Post #3491414
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