Improving Soil In A Perennial Bed

Question

How can I improve the soil in a perennial bed without digging up all the plants – e.g. adding compost.

Answer 1

You can lay amendments such as compost, peat moss, or composted manure (I add peat moss and one of the other two) around the plants and lightly work it in. You don't want to disturb any roots though. It will eventually trickle down further. Same thing with mulch on top. It will decompose and work itself down into the soil, thereby improving it.