What should I add to my raised beds before planting?
Compost, Compost, Compost Did we mention compost? Topping off your raised beds with a 1 to 2 layer of compost in early spring is the easiest way to feed a long, gradual supply of nutrients to your plants all summer long. Crop Rotation in a Raised Bed Garden Crop rotation helps you beat diseases and pests by keeping them guessing where their favorite plants will be year after year, and it’s especially important to rotate your crops if you’ve had pest or disease problems in the past. This ancient farming practice also improves your soil.Raised garden bed soil needs special attention because, over time, soil settles in the beds. Regular compost applications help aerate soil and improve water-retention and drainage. Sowing cover crops and turning them will also help improve raised soil.