I built a 4x16 raised veggie garden where i plan to grow peppers, tomatoes, and a variety of other veggies. i'm good with sunlight, when to plan, etc...but i'm looking for some advice on how to maximize the garden's success. Any help is appreciated
- Should I put mulch down? I understand the benefits of mulch on soil but wasn't sure if i should do it in the veggie garden. If so, when should I put it down? After I plant everything (different things are planted at different times)? After the seedlings sprout? What type of mulch would work best?
- I built my base soil out of topsoil and compost (about 85% of the bed) and will use potting mix for the remainder which ill lay out when I plant. I'll also add fertilizer at that point. But how often should I use 'plant food' throughout the process? Growing peppers in pots last year I fed them regularly using the veggie blend from the store mixed with water and they turned out great. Should the same process be followed with raised beds, or should I just rely on the organic material?
- Lastly how often should I "update" the soil by adding additional compost throughout the season?