inheriting garden beds

Question

hi-we inherited 5 beautiful garden beds that I believe have sat empty for years. I also do not know if they were growing vegetables or flowers in them. All the beds need at least 8″ of new compost/soil, but my question is…..should I be concerned what the quality is of the existing beds, or just focus on my new compost? I don’t want to be growing food for my family that’s sitting on top of years of miracle grow or other contaminates. I have a company that will test the soil, but I believe they only will tell me about pH, nitrogen, etc….what do u suggest? I’d like to avoid removing all their existing soil, but dont want to make foolish mistake. thanks!

Answer 1

First, a soil test is an excellent way to start!
Your County Extension Office will do a soil test for a few dollars.
This is the starting point and save time and money in prepping your garden beds for the growing season.

Here is a link to locate your nearest office.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/extension-search/

Here are some links on soil amendments and the best soils for vegetable beds.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/vgen/raised-vegetable-gardens.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/best-soil-raised-garden-beds.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/organic/the-importance-of-soil-for-an-organic-garden.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/improving-garden-soil.htm