We are clearing out an area next to the woods on our property so that we can build some raised beds for veggies and also so some landscaping to ease the transition from our lawn to the woods. In the process of clearing the area we had to clear a lot of boulders and we needed some fill. Hence the problem...we ordered some fill and they brought some VERY fine sand which becomes like cement when it gets wet. My husband spread it over the area where the beds are going to be, but I am concerned that this is going to adversely affect the drainage and turn the beds into mud pits after every rain. Am I correct in this, or will the fact that the beds are raised help them to dry out?
Hi, welcome to GardenStew from Chelmsford. Sounds like fill with a lot of clay. If you are concerned about drainage then before you put in good soil and compost create some small openings in the sand, fill with small rocks and cover with screening. The frequency and amount of rain we get around here should not generate a problem. What type of material are you using for the sides of the raised bed? What are the dimensions of the beds? Jerry
The sides of the raised beds will be made of pressure treated 2x8's. We planned to line the sides with landscaping fabric and the bottom with newspapers
You might want to check with the lumber yard to make sure the chemicals used in the pressure treating are compatible with vegetables
JohnZ makes a valid point. Also, proximity to the 'woods' might be a concern. Tree roots are known to migrate towoard nutrients. I know that my compost is usually full of them.
