A Gardeners Forum Forums General Discussion The Food Garden Forum growing in topsoil on top of lawn

I realize I should've started a no dig garden last fall, but I never got around to it and now I'm really regretting it. I was wondering if I can remove the sod, flip it upside down; pile up leaf mold, compost, and lots of topsoil and grow veggies? I know my mom uses topsoil all her containers where she grows her peppers (yes I've told her topsoil compacts but moms will be moms lol). I just want to grow beans (scarlet runner beans). I will also be putting tomatoes in containers (10" deep) and the containers on top of the soil so the roots can get more space to spread.

Now, if I can do this, can anyone recommend how much topsoil I have have? I know people suggest 6" for raised beds: yay or nay?

I think you can do this, Kenny. I do think the main problem might be the soil, leaf mold, compost and then the flipped sod in layers. Water tends to soak down through a layer or two and then instead of going deeper it spreads out at some level. And often so do roots. So roots end up shallower than their normal growth. Or even if the roots do go deeper a lot of the water won't sink to their level.

If you have true layers, it is best to mix a layer of both things between layers. So if you start with clay and want to lay on sand, you mix some clay and sand (50/50) for a layer before adding more sand. Then if you are adding a layer of mulch material next, you mix a half-and-half layer of sand/mulch before adding more mulch on top. I only used the clay/sand/mulch as an example. Is that kind of clear? As mud?

Thanks Tina, clear as crystal :) I hadn't thought about mixing the layers together. Definitely will do!

As to your question on how tall to raise. six inches or more. i wouldn't go any less.