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"You should have good results using about half native soil mixed with your compost and other organic matter. The native soil probably needs only nitrogen. I add composted manure every season, and that seems to continually improve the soil. You…"
"Motzz laboratories...have all the state of the art equipment...at roughly 36th St & Broadway"
"Seems this came down to a raised verse sunken bed question. I personally will start with a raised bed in part because I don't know exactly where I want to place my beds yet but want to get something started this season. Also the house I'm in is…"
"http://extension.arizona.edu/pubs/az1111.pdf
Or you can easily do your own testing. Note based upon comments be sure to check expiration date before purchase."
Or you can easily do your own testing. Note based upon comments be sure to check expiration date before purchase."
Can anybody suggest who offers soil testing? I am mainly worried about a painted wall and weather there had been some lead paint used at any point. Thanks.
"Thanks Marisa!"
"Hey Rachel,
I had a similar issue, but with rocks in place of the grass. Here are some links to the off-ground bed I built with pallets and fence slats - the whole thing cost me about $50 to build. It's 12' x 3' x 2.5' and filled to 18" deep. I do…"
I had a similar issue, but with rocks in place of the grass. Here are some links to the off-ground bed I built with pallets and fence slats - the whole thing cost me about $50 to build. It's 12' x 3' x 2.5' and filled to 18" deep. I do…"
"Rachel I echo what Ericka says about in-ground vs. raised bed. If you are thinking that a raised bed will avoid the bermuda you may not be that successful. Unless you put a solid bottom on the bed (using concrete) the bermuda would find its way…"
"Thanks for that Ericka, and the link. On that note...the entire yard is covered in very vigorous Bermuda Grass. So, I was initially thinking to dig it out but was told that this is nearly impossible. I really don't want to use chemicals to clear the…"
"The best way to garden here is directly in the ground, not raised beds, unless you are in a really rocky area up on the mountain. Sunken beds hold moisture better in our climate, and all that is really needed is adding organic matter, 50% compost to…"
Hello All. I am completely new to AZ gardening and plan to start some raised beds in the yard of the home I am renting soon. I was given some hints about having to "build" a more suitable, water-holding soil here for the garden to thrive but all I…
Comments
Hi, Rachel,
Happy new year and thanks for joining the VPA website! We hope you will find lots of helpful information in our forum and take advantage of our groups to connect with people who share your interests. We encourage you to actively participate.
VPA also offers classes and garden tours as well as lots of volunteer opportunities.
If you have any questions or suggestions, please let us know. My email is classes@vpaaz.org and you can reach Kate, the Volunteer Manager, via kate@vpaaz.org
Best wishes,
Susan
Class Coordinator
PS: Want another way to connect with VPA? Look for us on Facebook. (https://www.facebook.com/ValleyPermacultureAlliance) and Twitter (@vpapermie).