Q.My vegetables are not growing
I just got all new raised beds and, thus, a huge load of new soil (I compost but since we doubled the size of our garden we needed a lot more soil to fill the beds). The guy we got the soil from promised that the soil is “organic.” I planted most things from seed, putting the seeds right into the soil (greens, carrots, etc). Everything grew to about an inch and then halted. I planted six weeks ago (I live in CT). I wondered if it was the weather, etc. and then finally called the guy who claimed that the soil could be “too organic.” Manure had been added to the soil.
We are getting the soil tested right now but my questions are this: can soil have too many nutrients in it? Or is he saying that the manure did not have a chance to break down and is overwhelming the soil with nitrogen? I am not getting many answers and I don’t know what to do with the soil. I am so frustrated because I am losing growing time! Should I ask for my money back from this terrible soil? Thank you!
Weather certainly could be a factor. Has it been cold or warm? Evening temperatures should be at least 50 to 55 degrees for the plants to stay warm enough to start growing. Plants will just sit there until conditions warm up.
Watering? Raised beds will need to be watered more often.
Then onto the soil content. If the compost is not aged and is still hot, it will burn or even kill off your plants.
Yes, your compost can have to much nitrogen.
Since your not sure of what the soil is comprised of you are wise to have a soil test preformed.
I'm listing several links for you that will help you determine the coarse of action when your soil test is complete.
You can correct your soil though it may take time and work.
Best of luck and please let us know if we can further assist you.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/vgen/vegetable-garden-soil.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/peat-moss-information.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/using-topsoil-and-potting-soil.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/manures/the-benefits-of-manure-in-your-garden.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/vgen/raised-vegetable-gardens.htm
