Raised bed preparation after beans!

Discussion in 'General Gardening Discussion' started by Markymark, Feb 16, 2014.

  1. Markymark

    Markymark Gardener

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    Now in my third year of growing veg (can't believe it), I grew sunflowers and white lady runner beans in my raised bed. I had loads of success ( see photo) and want to do the same thing again. I wanted to ask if it was feasible to grow the same type of plant in the same space the year after, and if so, what do I need to add to the soil I have in my raised bed?
    I am having a week off work this week so wanted to try and prepare the ground in preparation for the warmer months ahead. Of course, I do know that it is way too early to be planting beans...I made that mistake in my first year!
    Thank you...
    It was so nice to get outside today with the sun shining! Freezing cold, but nice all the same!
     

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  2. JWK

    JWK Gardener Staff Member

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    You can grow runner beans year after year in the same soil. I prepare my runner bean bed in the autumn, dig out a trench and add loads of half composted kitchen waste. It's too late to do that now so just incorporate some well composted manure. You could just pile a few inches on top and let the worms do the work for you.

    Sorry I've no idea about sunflowers in the same soil.
     
  3. shiney

    shiney President, Grumpy Old Men's Club Staff Member

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    I've been growing beans on the same site for 40 years with no problem. I dig in well rotted garden compost each year and I get excellent results. You can just place it on the surface in the winter and it will be taken down by the worms.

    Although I don't grow sunflowers this site has had sunflowers growing each year for at least 30 years. You can look up what sort of feeding they might like.
    P1170807.JPG
     
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