One of the most popular questions I get on my speaking tour about organic container gardening is, “Do I need to replace the soil in my container when I plant in the spring?” The answer is a decidedly strong YES YES YES! Preparing container gardens and elevated beds for spring planting is all about making sure the soil is fresh, healthy, and ready to grow.
How to Handle Spring Soil for Container Gardens and Elevated Beds
Ask this question: Is the container garden or elevated bed shallower than twelve inches?
YES, the container is shallow
- Dump the soil in your compost bin or in your garden beds
- Replace completely with your favorite Kellogg Garden Organics Organic Soil
NO, the container is more than twelve inches deep:
- Dig out the top twelve inches of soil.
- Dump in a compost bin or garden bed
- Place three inches of Kellogg Garden Organics Organic Soil in the container
- Using a trowel, mix the soil well with the layer beneath
- Fill the rest of the container, leaving one inch of room at the very top of the container for watering purposes
Planting Your Container
Next, it is time to get started with the organic container gardening and plant up that container. In the photos you see how easy it is to plant a Swiss Chard ‘Bali’ plant in my elevated bed. Once I get the soil installed properly, it is time for soil amendments. I used Kellogg Garden Organics Organic Select Potting Mix Formulated with BiocharMax this time but you can use any Kellogg Garden Organics container or potting soil with ease. Typically, I add at least one part rotted manure, a cup or two of worm castings, and organic fertilizer according to package directions. Then I loosen the roots of the plant and snuggle it right down in my special container filled chock full of organic love.
Preparing container gardens and elevated beds for spring planting is simple – prepare your container gardens with fresh soil and expect wonderful growing results!
Want More? Check out our spring garden planting checklist video below!
About the Author:
Shawna Coronado is a successful author, blogger, photographer, and media host who focuses on wellness by teaching green lifestyle living, organic gardening, and anti-inflammatory culinary. Most recently Shawna has written the books, “The Wellness Garden” and “101 Organic Gardening Hacks”. Shawna campaigns for social and community good – her garden, food, and eco adventures have been featured in many media venues including television news programming, radio broadcasting, and PBS television. You can learn more about Shawna at www.shawnacoronado.com.
