Try not to get too wrapped up in trying to follow the letter of the law with the soil mix. Just use what you can get and afford. There are folks on this board using all sorts of different mixes with good results. I think a lot of us (myself included) tend to overthink things with this garden stuff. Just plant away and have fun!

Here is a link that might be useful: Luke's SF Victory Garden

Thanks Luke. That is very sane advice. I do tend to over think things - especially given the short growing season here in Maine.

About 90 days (Memorial Day to Labor Day) is all we have (for the most interesting "fruiting" vegetables) so I'm always trying to think of ways to give my babies the best odds of reaching adulthood and parenthood between frost dates.

Fred

This is my first year planting SFGs, so I can't speak from experience. But I have been wanting to try SFGing for several years and have been reading many forums and blogs during that time.

What I have found is many people often modify the mix and still have great results. I too found it difficult to find compost from 5 different sources. I settled on 3 and figured that my plants will show signs if they are deficient in nutrients. Then I can supplement whatever is needed.

Skillin's Nursery highly recommends Espoma Garden Tone for vegetable gardens. I have some on hand and plan on using it if I need something extra in my SFGs.

I have also started making my own compost to add to my SFGs next year. That way I know what is going into it.

Here is a link that might be useful: GrafixMuse's Garden Spot

Fred in Maine, I wouldn't worry too much about it. I planted in straight cow poop (dairy compost) and my garden is doing OK. Check out the photos .....

Here is a link that might be useful: Granny's Garden in June

Fred in Maine, just another thought....I found seashell compost at our local Ace Hardware.

I'm not sure where you are in Maine, but consider checking out your local hardware stores and feed supplies for a different type of compost. Then you can either mix with what you have, or top dress during the season.

Rachel
Graphic Muse's Garden Spot

Thanks for the advice. I guess I shouldn't worry. Things are looking good so far. I had a pepper birth last week and many of the tomato plants have been flowering - Park's Whopper and Beef Master started flowering May 25. Even Mortgage Lifter and Brandywine have flowers. - Fred