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Creating Well-Draining Soil for a Perennial Bed

Recipe for a Free-Draining Perennial Bed

You want a well-draining perennial bed and ask for ingredient percentages.

Recommended Mix

On existing soil, layer:

2–3 inches finely ground pine bark
½–1 inch composted manure
½–1 inch coarse sand

Till all into the top 6–8 inches. This creates a 10–12 inch blended layer elevated 3–4 inches above grade for improved drainage. Test pH after tilling; aim for 6.0–6.5 for most perennials.

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