Dirt not soil

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ssray

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Dirt not soil
« on: May 08, 2020, 22:21 »
In my other thread I have built 4 raised beds, internally 1mtr x 2.4
I had 2 tons of topsoil delivered, which has put 2 beds into use  no 3 is not filled enough yet and no 4 is going to be a compost bin for turf when I get to it.
I bought the top soil understanding that it would not be the best quality but could be improved
I tested it today at a pH level of between 6.5 and 7, I want to improve its overall health
I'm confused as to what to add
Currently locally I could get peat compost, mushroom compost or coco coir?
The topsoil is very grey when dry and quite heavy

Any suggestions?
Ta Ray

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mumofstig

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Re: Dirt not soil
« Reply #1 on: May 08, 2020, 22:33 »
I'd go for the mushroom compost, myself.
It's very good at improving poor soil, IMO but you could use peat compost, I find that the coco/coir goes to dust within a year, so I wouldn't advise using that.

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Plot 1 Problems

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Re: Dirt not soil
« Reply #2 on: May 09, 2020, 00:22 »
I'd add that I would personally not go for the peat based stuff, I'm no eco warrior but peat is a resource we really shouldn't be using these days, even if it is fantastic for growing in. Mushroom all the way!

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Goosegirl

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Re: Dirt not soil
« Reply #3 on: May 09, 2020, 12:20 »
As your soil is very grey I presume it's made up of either silt or clay. Mushroom compost is what I've used in the past to improve my alluvial soil because the lime content flocculates (as in combines) the soil particles together to improve drainage and gets the air into the soil. It's quite cheap but you need to source out what's available and don't go for the cheapest. Mine was delivered for free in big bags and had some mushies from those I didn't get round to using straight away. Smells lovely too!
I work very hard so don't expect me to think as well.


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