Lawn Removal:
- Dig 4-6 inches below surface to get under the roots of the grass and then peel back sections one at a time.
- Consider also keeping the lawn, but smothering with cardboard and newspaper to help allow grass to naturally decompose (process takes 4-8 weeks).
Tree Removal:
- Tree will shade the garden and roots compete with the plants, so consider relocating the tree.
- Dig relocation hole first before digging up the tree and moving.
- Dig around the tree and preserve the roots.
Soil Test:
- Test PH Level for essential nutrients.
- Nitrogen test for green leafy growth.
- Phosphorus test for fruit production.
- Potash/Potassium test for overall vigor, disease resistance- immune system.
Tilling Soil:
- Tillers can be rented for around $75 a day.
- Till 6-12 inches deep.
- Mix in small amount of compost when tilling native soil. (Compost amount varies depending on size of bed.)
- Make sure to check for sprinkler and irrigation lines under the soil before tilling.
Soil Mixture:
- Add compost to provide nutrients.
- Add ideal premium top soil which is low in texture. It has good moisture retention, drainage, and is fortified with kelp, bat guano, and chicken manure.
- Build to a mound 12-18 inches high to allow roots to grow deep.
- Taper down edges of bed to prevent soil erosion.
Fertilizer:
- Add organic tomato and vegetable plant fertilizer.
- 1.5 cups per 10 square foot.
Final Step:
- Water raised bed to allow nutrients to fully mix.
- Let stand for at least 24 hours to allow soil and compost to settle.
Visit edible garden designer Shirley Bovshow at foodiegardener.com.
Soil and compost courtesy of Kellogg Garden Products: kellogggarden.com
