The first step in preparing your raised garden beds is to clear out any spent plants and debris from the previous growing season. Start by removing any dead or diseased plants, as they can harbor pests and diseases that may affect your new crops. Pull up any weeds and ensure that you remove the roots to prevent them from regrowing. Additionally, remove any fallen leaves, twigs, or other debris that may have accumulated in the beds.

Once you have cleared out all the unwanted plants and debris, it's a good idea to compost them if they are disease-free. Composting is an excellent way to recycle organic matter and create nutrient-rich soil amendments for your garden. If any plants show signs of disease or pests, it's best to dispose of them in the trash to prevent the spread of pathogens.

After clearing out the old plants and debris, it's time to address the soil in your raised garden beds. Over time, the soil can become compacted, making it difficult for plant roots to penetrate and access essential nutrients. To remedy this, use a garden fork or a shovel to loosen the soil. Dig your shovel approximately 10 inches below the soil and gently turn it over. Repeat this process throughout the garden bed, making sure to go as deep as possible without disturbing the structure of the bed.

Loosening the soil not only improves drainage but also allows plant roots to grow more easily. It also helps to break up any clumps of soil and allows for better air circulation. If the soil is particularly compacted, you may need to repeat this process a few times to achieve the desired consistency.

Once you have loosened the soil, it's time to amend it with organic matter to ensure optimal nutrition for your plants. Adding organic matter helps improve the soil structure, fertility, and water-holding capacity. It also provides a steady release of nutrients, which is crucial for healthy plant growth.

There are several types of organic matter you can use to amend your soil, but our favorite combination is homemade compost, worm castings, and an organic + nutrient-dense fertilizer from Arber (Coming Soon in 2024). Spread a layer of organic matter over the top of your garden bed and use a garden fork to work it into the soil. Aim for a depth of at least 4-6 inches to ensure thorough incorporation. If your soil is particularly sandy or clayey, you may need to add more organic matter to improve its texture.

With your raised garden beds cleared, soil loosened, and amended, it's time to select the seeds or starters you want to grow for your fall harvest. Take into consideration the climate and length of your fall growing season when choosing your plants. Cool-season crops like arugula, cauliflower, cucumbers, and radishes are excellent choices for fall gardening.

When selecting seeds, look for varieties that are specifically bred for fall planting. These varieties are typically more cold-tolerant and will perform better in cooler temperatures. If you prefer to start with seedlings, visit your local nursery or garden center to find a variety of fall-friendly plants.

Prepare the planting area in your raised garden beds by creating furrows or rows with a garden trowel or hoe. Follow the planting instructions on the seed packets or plant labels for the appropriate spacing and planting depth. Once you have planted your seeds or starters, water them thoroughly and keep the soil consistently moist until they germinate or establish themselves.