UPDATE// FEB 2016//: We are using a modified method of this now. We found that years 2, 3, 4 were not as good as year 1. We’ve changed to using the square foot methods for growing in a confined space, but we’ve adopted the BACK TO EDEN method with SFG. Our soil nutrients are the main focus now and so far we’ve experienced much better results. Mind you the BTE method takes a few years to really give you the best results and we are now just entering into year 2 using that method. If you intend on using the SFG method make sure you use A LOT of compost when planting and not just the scoop or two which are suggested in the SFG book.
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In this video we show you in real time how we make our Square Foot Gardening Soil and use it to fill a 4×2 raised bed.
We use Mel Bartholomew’s All New Square Foot Gardening book’s instructions for Mel’s Mix as our guide.
Ideally you want:
1/3 Compost and/or manure (preferably a blend of various organic sources)
1/3 Peat Moss (Coconut Fibre is a good natural renewable resource alternative)
1/3 Vermiculite (use Perlite if Vermiculite is unavailable)
Vermiculite works like a SPONGE in your garden. It retains water for slow release of nutrients. It also aerates the soil which helps roots dig deep easily with little resistance.
Peat moss retains moisture and provides nutrients.
Compost and manure are nutrient rich. It is best to get a good mix of sources to provide lots of various nutrients for your vegetables.
EDUCATE YOURSELF ON CANADIAN PEAT MOSS:
http://www.theecologist.org/blogs_and_comments/commentators/other_comments/1780209/the_truth_about_peat_moss.html (just sick of the comments saying Peat is non-renewable… ugh… READ THIS!!!)
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