What should i have filled my raised beds with?

[Peppertom]

Hi

i am new to this, both growing my own and this forum.

this year i have made some raised beds and i filled them with compost (only)

have i done the wrong thing? i see people talking about top soil and layering.

but when i was costing up compost was the cheepest thing to fill the pots with and it seemed to me that that is what plants are always wanting to grow in.

Thanks

[Two_Sheds]

It should be a mix of compost and good loam (topsoil). The compost on its own will be too light and fluffy.

A John Innes No. 3 is a heavier type of potting compost that is better for long-term containers, but it is dearer.

Mix in your own well-rotted compost, well-rotted manure, and good quality topsoil as and when you can.

[marathon]

Some of my beds have simply been filled with well rotted manure each year and so the depth as increased each year. Slow process but cheap.

[Gryfon]

I've just put compost in this year, mainly because I couldn't get anything else. I'll start mixing other things in next winter, and the worms should do a good job, they're big enough!

[Peppertom]

Thanks for all your responses, i have started growing stuff so it is to late to replace or add anything else.
most of what i am growing seems to be doing okay, just the cabbages and collies dont seem to like it when i plant them outside.

it always looks so dry as well (we havent had any rain in over a week, but when we do it soon drys out again), i keep watering it but where some of the carrots are i notice that there is moss growing (a sign of over watering?)

[Creemteez]

Thanks for all your responses, i have started growing stuff so it is to late to replace or add anything else.
most of what i am growing seems to be doing okay, just the cabbages and collies dont seem to like it when i plant them outside.

it always looks so dry as well (we havent had any rain in over a week, but when we do it soon drys out again), i keep watering it but where some of the carrots are i notice that there is moss growing (a sign of over watering?)

Your cabbages and caulies don't like it because they like to be REALLY well firmed in and Mpc is to light to do this well. water them well and get the heels of your hands round them and press really well.
It's not too late to add stuff! If you mulch around your plants with say grass clippings or well soaked newspaper, this will add nutrients as they rot down and conserve moisture! Aim for a layer about three inches (6cm) deep. Bear in mind though, that whatever you use shouldn't touch the actual veggies, and the ground MUST be well soaked before you put it on - otherwiswe you'll just be sealing in the dryness! Go on, I bet your grass needs cutting!

[Two_Sheds]

it always looks so dry

Yes, it's not got enough substance to it.

persevere with what you've got for now ... add extras as and when you can.