[AT] Raised bed gardening - or not...

[Grant Brians]

The simple answer is yes, of course because the soil will still be soil that
needs to be handled. The best thing as I noted below is to use the clay soil
and mix in your additions, not to purchase all new.... The thing about the
beds is that you will have an easier time of working around them. Also, the
best configuration is to have them the width that makes it easy for you to
work with them and the length that is easiest for your supplies and
location. Usual widths are 3'-7' wide, most people choose either 4 or 5 feet
because 4' is a convenient division of lumber or similar materials or 5'
because the lean over distance is convenient for them.
        Grant Brians

-----Original Message-----
From: at-bounces at lists.antique-tractor.com
[mailto:at-bounces at lists.antique-tractor.com]On Behalf Of Mike
Meulenberg
Sent: Wednesday, May 23, 2012 12:08 PM
To: at
Subject: Re: [AT] Raised bed gardening - or not...


Thank you for the info on raised beds guys, I hope to get them installed
this weekend. Wife has ordered the project be completed posthaste, so I
better get busy before the heat hits on Monday. David, you mentioned working
your beds after a rain. Do I still need to till a raised bed?
Thanks,
Mike M


----- Receiving the following content -----
From: Grant Brians
Receiver: Antique tractor email discussion group
Time: 2012-05-23, 08:10:26
Subject: Re: [AT] Raised bed gardening - or not...


As a farmer of clay soil and having had my gardens in clay for years, I echo
David's comments that clay soil needs to be worked at the right conditions.
Clay can actually be the most productive soil type as the small soil
particles there is the largest opportunity for water storage and nutrient
availability.
     The key is to use your fingers - if the moisture content allows your
fingers to break the soil apart without them getting sticky, then it is time
to work the soil. Also, like all soil types clay soils NEED organic material
added to maintain tilth and replenish the soil nutrient reserves.
     So, whether you use raised beds or not - as a commercial vegetable
farmer nearly all of our land is listed into beds to facilitate harvest,
planting, weed control and drainage - pay attention to the soil and work it
at the right time and you will be happier!
             Grant Brians
             Hollister,California vegetable, fruit and nuts farmer