Vermiculite is mined and is therefore also a non-renewable resource with a significant carbon footprint. Peat takes thousands of years to develop and is a valuable natural sink for greenhouse gases. Originally, a soil mixture of peat moss, vermiculite, and compost (“Mel’s Mix”) was recommended in SFG. While this makes an excellent soil for vegetables, two of the three ingredients come from non-renewable sources.Once new gardeners experience the success of SFG gardens, they often want to expand the range of crops they grow beyond the standard SFG crops. Although many vegetables can be grown in SFG gardens, it struggles to accommodate larger plants (squash, melons, main-crop potatoes etc), perennials (globe artichokes, rhubarb), and fruit bushes/trees.Many schools have embraced the SFG method because it’s easy to install and maintain without becoming an additional burden for the teacher. SFG is a great method for new gardeners, people who have little time, the elderly or disabled ( SFG gardens can be built at a raised height to make them more accessible), and children. The “pros” for SFG are primarily ease and simplicity. Back in the 1970s, this was a revolutionary idea! Never walk on the soil in the bed, as this will only compact the soil.Thin with Scissors: Instead of pulling up excess plants (which can disturb the root systems of the plants you want to grow), snip them off with scissors.The rich soil enables plants to be grown much more closely than normal, which in turn crowds out weeds. This provides a weed-free start as well as being water retentive and full of nutrients. A specific soil mix, which is water-retentive and nutrient-rich, is used to fill the beds.
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