New flower beds, best mix?

planorganic · Joined: 31 Dec 1969 Posts: 7 Location: Plano,TEXAS

I am putting in two brand new flower beds in my front yard. I have been organic for about 3 years now. Each area is about 40ft X 10ft. I am wondering what is the best mix of "dirt" to put in. I had one place tell me to use a soil mix= 50% sandy loam and 50%dirt/compost mix.
I would appreciate any recommedations. I am going to need about 3 yards of it.
Thanks!

Nadine · Joined: 10 Mar 2003 Posts: 1201 Location: Carrollton,TEXAS

My personal favorite is Soil Building Systems. They have 2 or three types of bedding mixes, but the folks there can guide you to the best one for your situation. Being a member of the Ground Crew, you can get 10% off your first order! Tell Baron or whoever you talk to that Nadine sent you. I don't make anything off it, but I like them to know I refer what I know to be great quality! Cheers!
Nadine

Dchall_San_Antonio · Joined: 18 Mar 2003 Posts: 2011 Location: San Antonio,TEXAS

My first favorite is the soil you already have with organic fertilizers applied.

Second favorite is pure sand with organic fertilizers applied.

Soils you bring in always seem to harden up after a year or so. Not sure why. Sand never hardens.

Kathe Kitchens · Joined: 21 May 2003 Posts: 829 Location: Dallas,TX

I'm definitely with Nadine on this one. Sand doesn't hold nutrients nearly as well as a proper mix. Being in Plano, you have a mostly clay soil and the best way to get what you want is either to highly amend the soil you have or bring in something that's already mixed. AFter it's been there a while, the nutrients will affect the soil beneath it so it will become more healthy anyway. Bringing it in will be more expedient. HOpefully you're not already heavily into hard work and this message is in time. If not, you've got a plan B!

Kathe