Building Raised Beds

by Lana Stewart
(Morehead, Ky. USA)

Question:

My property is surrounded with walnut trees and I cannot grow tomato plants in it. I am considering a raised planter garden just for my tomato plants.

In order to protect the plants from the contaminated soil containing juglone.

What do I use to cover the bottom of the raised bed? I have a roll of cloth that prevents weeds...Is this the correct thing to use? If not, what could I use?
Lana

Answer:

Hi Lana,
Sounds like you have a terrific plan. I think you'll truly enjoy raised bed gardening.

The weed preventive cloth is exactly what I would use. In times past, I've also used newspaper and thin cardboard. You can use either one or a combination of both. Don't fear about the newspaper or cardboard, it's biodegradable.

All three will do a great job in suffocating the weeds and grass so they won't come up through your raised bed garden.

One last thought. If you go the route of newspaper or thin cardboard, be sure to wet it down with the hose before applying your soil on top of it!

Have a great time enjoying you garden!!
Brad

Related Pages: