Rich in nutrients

When planting edibles such as vegetables and lettuce in raised beds, it's important to choose a soil that is nutrient-rich, well-drained and free from toxins and pollution. A good raised bed soil for edible plants can be made by mixing different types of soil and adding organic material, such as compost or manure.

Soil mixture

You can also add other materials such as coconut fiber or perlite to improve drainage and air circulation in the soil. A good soil mix for raised beds can for example consist of a mixture of garden soil, compost and sand or perlite. You can also buy special raised bed soil in garden centers and nurseries that is formulated for the purpose. These soils are often composed of different materials that provide a good balance of nutrients, water and air.

PH-value

It's important to avoid soil that is too heavy and clayey as it can clog and hinder drainage. Conversely, you should also avoid using soil that is too light, which can dry out quickly and lose nutrients.

It's also a good idea to check the pH of the soil and adjust it to the optimal level for the plants you want to grow. Most vegetables and salads thrive best in soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.

Natural fertilizer

Finally, you may want to add fertilizer or other nutrients to the soil to ensure your planted plants get the necessary nutrients to grow and produce a good harvest. Natural fertilizers (e.g. raised bed mulch or compost) are often preferable as they release nutrients slowly over time and help build long-term soil health and fertility.