Midwest clay context
In Midwest gardens, roughly zones 4–6, clay can hold water while becoming dense and slow to drain. A raised-bed mix should add workable structure above the clay without sealing the bottom.
What “good mix”
- Topsoil: Mineral soil and bulk from a screened, consistent source.
- Finished compost: Organic matter and crumbly texture; use earthy-smelling finished material such as bagged finished compost, not fresh manure.
- Aeration: A stable coarse amendment such as pine bark fines can create air spaces. Avoid mystery waste.
Estimate volume
Measure length × width × depth in feet. A 4-by-8-foot bed filled 1 foot deep needs 32 cubic feet before settling. Divide total cubic feet by the bag volume and allow extra for settling.
means
A good mix has air space for roots, holds some moisture, and drains excess rain. It should feel loose rather than sticky. No single recipe fits every site, so watch the bed after rain.
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