Category Archives: Build

Soil is probably THE most important component of a successful garden. When it comes to soil, there are many options, each with it’s benefits and drawbacks. Here I will outline some soil choices, and you can pick the one that fits your situation. Use Your Own This is potentially the least expensive option for new gardeners. However, it also can be the most complicated and labor intensive. Pros Cons No cost for initial soil May need to test the soil May need additional amendments May contain weed seeds Labor intensive to prepare Straight Compost It may sound crazy, but you … Continue reading →

I’ve had some questions and confusion about Mel’s Mix vs. my suggestion for Modified Mel’s Mix (My Mix) vs. other garden soil options. I’ve decided to write specifically about each choice. Go here to read about Mel’s Mix. My Mix This is the mix I use–on my site I’ve often referred to it as “modified Mel’s Mix.” 1 part peat moss 1 part vermiculite 2 parts compost (as many kinds as you can find) As with Mel’s Mix, avoid steer manure–it’s high in salt. I have found that My Mix has enough peat moss and vermiculite to make the soil … Continue reading →

For some, traditional gardening is too labor intensive and physically demanding. Raised bed gardening, including square foot gardening, is a great solution. There is little hoeing, weeding, tilling, and toiling. However, those with physical limitations still find this to be very difficult. I have found a few sources of elevated gardening boxes–these are an ideal solution for the elderly, those in wheel chairs, and anyone who finds it difficult to bend while working at the garden. RTS Garden Table with Fixed Legs Found at Amazon.com Cedar Boxes with Legs From SquareFootGardening.com Instant Garden from EasyGardener.com Happy gardening!

Vermiculite is an important ingredient of Mel’s Mix, the gardening soil I use in my square foot garden. It is particularly helpful for square foot, container, and raised bed gardens. Some of the most common questions I get asked about vermiculite are: What is it? Where can I buy it? Is it safe? Are there any substitutes? What is vermiculite? Vermiculite is a natural mineral. It starts off like mica–sort of a flaky rock. When heat is applied, it expands and becomes a light, fluffy, fire-resistant material. There are numerous uses for this product (like insulation), but here we’re using … Continue reading →

Go here for the original post about buying vs. building cost comparison. For those of you who love Square Foot Gardening, or at least prefer to grow in raised garden beds, I have good news for you! There are more and more options when it comes to purchasing raised or square foot garden beds. Honestly, it’s VERY difficult to do an “apples to apples” comparison, but I’m going to try! I have found several online sources to purchase garden beds. SquareFootGardening.com HomeGardensToGo.com KareeLaneGardens.com Easy Garden Box Greenland Gardener Kit Frame It Garden Bed Suncast Garden Kit The last 4 are … Continue reading →

I’m always on the lookout for places to buy raised garden beds (and square foot garden beds), and have I found a great option! This is called the Easy Garden Box and it is available to purchase at nurseries across the country, or on Amazon.com! I have to admit, this may be my favorite garden bed so far. It’s super easy to put together, very sturdy, and just a little deeper than most vinyl boxes. I’ll walk you through the setup. . . Here is a picture of the box it came in–it can easily fit in the back of a … Continue reading →