When filling your raised beds, the first layer should be cardboard. This acts as a weed barrier- but one that will break down and decompose over time.
This layer can be up to 40%-50 of the height of your bed. That means if your bed is 24 inches tall, you can add wood matter up to 12 inches tall.
This layer can be made up of any combination of the following: – Grass clippings – Chopped leaves – Straw
This can be purchased from your local mulch yard or, if you have access, use some of the options below: – Well rotted animal manure – Well rotten leaf mold