On Thu, 21 May 2009 13:00:22 -0700 (PDT), Andrei Outkine
wrote:

We recently moved into a new house and just finished redesigning our
small backyard. We have paved most of it, but left two 1 yard wide
strips for flowerbeds. We now need to add soil to the flowerbeds to
raise the ground's level and create an environment our plants can
flourish in. I need some help figuring out what to fill the flowerbeds
with. I've done a tiny bit of research and looks like the best option
is to use a mix of non-organic and organic matter. I need some advice
on how to go about the selection of both. For non-organic, I am
thinking about ordering "screened topsoil" from a local landscaping
shop. Is that usually good enough for flowers, herbs and bushes (which
is what we intend to grow)? Another option is buying some type of
potting mix from Lowes, but it seems much more expensive (I need a
good 2 cubic yards). As for organic matter, compost and peat moss are
mentioned most. Do I need both? In what proportions should I mix them?
Any other advice relevant to the subject would be highly appreciated.
Thanks.


Good topsoil and compost is what I would use, and till it in. Peat
moss is okay, but compost is better as it provides more
micronutrients. It may be cheaper to have a truckload delivered than
to buy bags. Get a soil test done to find out what fertilizers you
may need. Peat moss may lower the pH, so you may need some lime.
Compost tends to neutralize acidic or alkaline soil. Adding other
ammendments may be good depending on the specific plants you intend to
grow. It is difficult to add too much compost but easy to add too
much of other things. Unless you have lots of extra money forget the
potting mix.