Re: CULT - RAISED BEDS
- To: Multiple recipients of list <i*@rt66.com>
- Subject: Re: CULT - RAISED BEDS
- From: I*@aol.com
- Date: Tue, 25 Mar 1997 04:05:40 -0700 (MST)
In a message dated 97-03-25 03:42:05 EST, Rima writes:
>
>I've noticed that more than one person has mentioned planting irises in
>raised beds. Is this a better thing to do than planting directly in the
>ground? I guess it's easier on the back and knees (I am not being
>facetious). But what are the benefits for the irises?
Rima, here in the northeast, the benefit for the irises is DRAINAGE! Since
many modern bearded irises have trouble adjusting to our moist (and cold)
climate, we have greater success in raised beds. I'm even able to grow some
of those WONDERFUL iris from the land of Oz (via Keith Keppel) by planting
them almost on a hillside.
The way I handle it - because my garden is rather freeform and eclectic (read
"chaotic"), is that I build mounds... relying on the angle of the soil to
stay in place. Then I get myself some interesting rocks, and use them as a
soil barrier so that I can plunk in an iris. This suits my taste... and
suits the iris.
It's also a hellovalot easier to dig when you raise above the level of our
omnipotent clay!
Kathy Guest - E. Aurora, NY... in the Buffalo snow belt
