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.