Replacing top layer of soil In greenhouse ?

Discussion in 'Compost, Fertilisers & Recycling' started by Ariadae, Apr 4, 2016.

  1. Ariadae

    Ariadae Super Gardener

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    For several years I have been applying plenty of horse manure to my greenhouse soil from my neighbour (although there have been some problems with distorted growth from time to time, as a result of some contamination with something). I think it's time I gave the soil a treat and replaced or enriched the top layer, and was wondering what would be the best thing to use? Spent mushroom compost? Regular compost? Suggestions of suppliers gratefully received
     
  2. MrsTea

    MrsTea Khazâd Ai-Mênu

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    Hello, Ariadae.

    I used regular compost last year to get rid of a layer of weed. It worked well for me, using the newspaper method, and my plants grew well in the regular compost as well. I suppose if you worked the compost into the bottom layer of you current soil, it should work for you.
     
  3. Loofah

    Loofah Admin Staff Member

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    To you ever dig out the old soil? If not it's possible for pests and diseases to build up so would be worth doing now.

    Always good to have a good rotation of soil conditioners and the mushroom compost (alkaline) will counter the manures tendency to make the soil slightly more acidic
     
  4. Ariadae

    Ariadae Super Gardener

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    Yes I have replaced the old soil from time to time, but not for a couple of years, and rotate what I grow in the 2 greenhouses and polytunnel. I've used a pile of topsoil we've had lying around for ages which has now been used up. i think I'll just buy a few of the wickes 4 for £15, as mentioned on another thread,and dig out the top layer, replacing with the mpc.
     
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