Raised bed question

duajones · April 9, 2010

I have 2 4x8 raised beds that I put together in 2007. I mixed compost, manure, landscapers mix and some top soil. I have grown beans, okra, cukes and tomatoes successfully in these beds. They seem to be too free draining at this point and have become somewhat compact.
What can I add to this that will loosen it up some and also help with moisture retention?
I was thinking maybe some peat and perlite but wanted to get thoughts from you guys.
I have beans growing in the two beds now and once they are done I will plant okra and more beans. I have a mini tiller that I will use to work in whatever I decide to use.

April 9, 2010	#1
duajones Tomatovillian™ Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Corpus Christi,Texas Z9 Posts: 1,996	Raised bed question I have 2 4x8 raised beds that I put together in 2007. I mixed compost, manure, landscapers mix and some top soil. I have grown beans, okra, cukes and tomatoes successfully in these beds. They seem to be too free draining at this point and have become somewhat compact. What can I add to this that will loosen it up some and also help with moisture retention? I was thinking maybe some peat and perlite but wanted to get thoughts from you guys. I have beans growing in the two beds now and once they are done I will plant okra and more beans. I have a mini tiller that I will use to work in whatever I decide to use. __________________ Duane Jones