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Prepping the Site
From Scratch

Scratch

From Scratch

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  • Measure and mark the perimeter (turf paint, rope, and garden hose can do the job)

  • Using a shovel, dig out grasses and weeds.  (Using a Sod-cutter is much more efficient)

  • Determine soil type and if soil ammendments must be made. 

  • Ensure the soil is workable before rolling out and pinning the template down

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Exist

Prepping the Site
From an Existing Bed

soiltype

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  • Using a shovel, dig out grasses and weeds.  (Using a Sod-cutter is much more efficient)

  • Determine soil type and if soil ammendments must be made. 

  • Ensure the soil is workable before rolling out and pinning the template down

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Determining Soil Type
Clay vs. Loam

  • Clay Soil is usually what exists in lawn areas where contractors only added enough top soil to grow turf.

  • Clay will be lighter in color in the Central Maryland/DC area.

  • Clay consists of small crystals of silica and alumina

  • Loam soil is typically found in woodland areas and mature landscape beds on a residential property

  • Loam consists of Sand, Silt, Clay, and Organic Matter

  • Loam will be darker in color, easier to dig and work with.

soilphotoNEWER.jpg
amend

Amending Soil

Soil tests are best!  Visit your local extension webpage for detailed information.

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Generally speaking, when working with heavy clay soil, adding compost, peat moss, and/or a peat moss substitute will improve the soil structure and encourage a healthy environment for plant growth.  

 

For a 4x10 bed of heavy clay soil, use

  • 6 - bags of compost (12 cubic feet)

  •   Weeds and Grass must be removed prior to mixing.

  • Use a shovel or tiller to mix the soil and compost.

  • Rake the soil in to a mound in the middle.

Secure

Securing Template to Soil

Garden Template

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  • Once the bed is clean and soil is loosened.

  • Unroll the template and secure corners and edges using the provided landscaping staples.

InstallingPlants

Installing Plants

Planting

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  • A well tilled garden will make this process effortless.

  • Once fabric is secured to the bed. Place corresponding plants in the respective locations.

  • Move the plant to the side and cut an "X" in the center of the circle.

  • Fold the pieces back to allow yourself room to plant.

  • The rootmass ofthe plant should sit a .5" above the soil line.

  • Press the plant firmly into the soil

  • Water generously.

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