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Old 07-31-2007, 08:29 PM   #2 (permalink)
Lagniappe
 
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Default Re: Raising dirt level

Hi Joshua ,
I did this earlier this year and on a large scale . My plants were getting wet feet from the clay soil under my beds so I raised them . The first few I raised were left in place and even withmy super well drainig mix of munure compost ,rice hulls ,.... I had pooling prblems . But what's more , I restricted the oxgen of the root zone by piling soil on top . I never piled soil to touching the plant for fear that it woul rot it . I went back and dug them all up and did it right . I raised some beds 3" and some 12 " . There have been no drainage issues since. The only concern I have is that the plants I overwinter outdoors may face a greater freeze threat.
In the spring these beds should warm up faster .

If you decide to pile the dirt around the plant you should watch for signs of anaerobic conditions . And if you don't want to dig them up you may be able to remedy this with aerated compost tea or a peroxide solution. However , an ounce of prevention.... .

Last edited by Lagniappe : 07-31-2007 at 08:37 PM.
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