what type of soil would you recommend for raised vegetable bed ( both existing and new bed) using traditional growing method?
I would like try square foot gardening technique . What type of soil would you recommend?
I would also like to try intensive gardening. What type of soil would you recommend?
Thanks a lot for your help.
Thank you for contacting the Toronto Master Gardeners regarding soil for vegetable garden beds. Good soil quality is important for the intensive planting that you plan to do. The soil requirements may be different for your existing vs. new beds. In general, the soil should contain at least 1/3 compost. This helps with soil structure and thus water retention / drainage and soil tilth (physical condition of the soil). Some experts suggest 3/4 triple mix (a combination of peat moss, compost and top soil) and 1/3 compost. Soil additions for your existing vegetable beds depends on the current soil conditions. Regular additions of compost before, during and after the growing season will help to maintain the soil conditions and nutrients you need for intensive growing practices. Some “heavy feeding” vegetables such as tomatoes may benefit from application of organic fertilizer. Well rotted / composted manure can be mixed into soil where nitrogen-loving vegetables (e.g., cabbage, broccoli) are to be grown. Avoid excessive nitrogen for root vegetables and legumes. The following references may be helpful to you.
https://savvygardening.com/the-best-soil-for-a-raised-garden-bed/
https://extension.umd.edu/hgic/topics/soil-fill-raised-beds
https://squarefootgardening.org/2019/05/do-you-have-to-replace-mels-mix/
Best of luck with your raised beds!