Recipe for Raised Beds

EON uses raised vegetable beds in the Kimberley to build up the soil with manures, straw and compost. This prevents water logging during the Wet and adds needed nutrients to the soil mix. The beds can be made from corrugated iron and should be about 30 - 40 high.  It is best to use oval or round shaped beds because sharp corners can cause cuts and grazes.  The metal edge at the top of the bed is sharp – stick thick tape, hose or other rubbery, soft material around the top of the bed to prevent cuts and grazes.  Each bed should be a minimum size of about 2 meters wide x 3.5 meters long. 

Access to a bobcat really helps the bed-filling process. If you have more than 4 beds, fill 2 beds at a time and then place the others into position as they are being filled to allow access for the bobcat to move around the beds.

Step 1. Lay old carpet at the bottom of the raised bed. This will keep out weeds and termites. Water thoroughly

Step 2. Put a 5cm layer of well rotted manure

Step 3. Create a 10cm layer of straw/sorghum at the same time sprinkle 1 handful of Blood and Bone per square metre over the straw. Water this layer really well

Step 4. Lay about 10cm of good quality soil- Pindan/Black soil or top soil

Step 5. Add a 5cm layer of manure

Step 6. Add another 10cm layer of straw/sorghum, sprinkle of Blood and Bone and water thoroughly

Step 7. Another layer of Pindan/Black soil or good soil

Step 8. A final 10cm layer of straw/sorghum

Step 9. Water thoroughly so that the bed is wet all the way through

Step 10. When it is time to plant out your seedlings, dig a small hole in the last layer and place 2 cups full of potting mix in the bottom of each hole. Plant the seedling direct into the potting mix.

Note: Leave the bed to settle for 1 week before planting.  Water it thoroughly twice during the week.

Some examples of raised beds in remote community schools in the Kimberley: