When changing over my boxes to the next season, I take some time to prep the box and the soil.
First, I check the irrigation in the box to make sure everything is I good working order. Most repairs are as simple as popping off and replacing a new hose or replacing an end cap that has popped off.
Next, I loosen up the soil by running a hand rake through it, then add more soil, if needed. Normally, I try to keep my soil level 3-4” from the top. You can see this one needs soil.
I then mix in a good, general organic fertilizer with the soil. I prefer to use a liquid seaweed here as it provides so many good nutrients.
Then, I let the box sit for a couple of weeks while I design my next season of planting.
I read a lot of garden books, but my go to is one my kids gave me several years ago. I’ve recently seen this and other great gardening books at some D&B Supply stores.
Among other things, it provides advice on what NOT to plant after certain vegetables. Some veggies just don’t get along well with others and require different amounts of shade and nutrients. I’ve learned the value of this over the years.
Before I start planting, I check the box to see if it needs any maintenance. This one needs a coat of raw linseed oil, so I’ll take care of that, too, while the bed is resting. The oil provides a nice protective coating on the boxes to help them better withstand weathering over time and keeps their pretty cedar coloring.
It doesn’t take a great deal of time, just a little patience to prepare for a successful fall garden.