Quick Answer
Mike McGrath's Mini Book of Garden Beds & Composting is a compact, expert-written guide that answers your top questions on setting up a raised bed and creating rich compost from yard waste.
Why Trust This Mini Book?
This book was created especially for Greenes Fence by Mike McGrath, host of a nationally syndicated Public Radio gardening show. It packs decades of practical know-how into a small format, so you get straight answers without fluff.
FAQ: Raised Bed Composting with Mike McGrath
How do I start composting in a raised bed?
Mike recommends layering green materials (kitchen scraps, grass clippings) with brown materials (dried leaves, straw) directly in the bed. Keep the pile moist but not soggy, and turn it every few weeks to aerate. Aim for a 2:1 ratio of browns to greens to avoid odors and speed up decomposition.
What if my raised bed soil is poor?
The book advises mixing in finished compost before planting. If your soil is heavy clay or sandy, add organic matter like composted manure or leaf mold to improve texture and nutrients. Test your soil pH and amend accordingly; Mike suggests a pH of 6.0-7.0 for most vegetables.
Can I compost in winter?
Yes, but the process slows down. Mike suggests insulating the pile with a thick layer of straw or using a compost bin inside the raised bed. Keep adding materials and turn less frequently. Winter composting still produces usable compost by spring, just plan for a longer wait.
How do I troubleshoot smelly compost?
A foul smell usually means too much green material or not enough air. Mike recommends adding more browns (shredded paper, dry leaves) and turning the pile to introduce oxygen. If the smell persists, check for compacted layers and fluff the pile with a garden fork.
Product Fact
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Mike McGrath's Mini Book of Garden Beds & Composting RCMB: Created especially for Greenes Fence by gardening expert and humorist Mike McGrath, this little book is chock-full of advice on gardening beds, from installing your garden bed to choosing, maintaining, and troubleshooting your garden bed crops. You get tailored, trustworthy guidance from a well-known expert, covering everything from setup to troubleshooting in one compact resource.
Mike McGrath's Mini Book of Garden Beds & Composting RCMB