Live and learn

New beds for a new year, Starting to tear out the old beds now as the fall garden comes to an end, Still getting tomatoes and okra but we've had a few nights in the low 40s so it won't be long. I will be correcting three mistakes that I made with the old beds first will be the mix, I used straight compost Being new in Texas I had no idea where to find the other components Now two years later I'm learning, Second and Third has to do with the HEAT down here in Zone 8-9 I'm moving the new beds away from the fence for better air circulation my cucumbers and melons just burnt up this fall even using a thick layer of mulch the soil temperature hit 90 F in September of this year, My new beds will be free standing and I will use 2 X 6s two high this time instead of cement pavers, the pavers suck up to much heat in this good Texas sun. Just a thought! I started Gardening after I retired just to keep busy. So far it's working.

Not only is this material useful for preventing invading pests, it also helps keeping hot rays of the sun away...I use it for the cold crops in spring, then move onto warm weather crops and back to fall crops. Stays up until winters freeze
Holes are large enough to allow rain and plenty of air moving through.

Newbie, The first year is a big learning curve. I personally think 2" thick boards (1 1/2") makes the best beds for the lower latitude belt. Just too much overhead sun in the summer. The concrete blocks are also good if the holes are filled. Don't forget sun shade, also.

Jimmy, I'm afraid that the wonderful mesh that you use spring, summer and fall would not be adequate shade for lower lats in the brutal sun when the temps get above 100*F. I would like to slowly make "slip covers" of your mesh to replace the bridal tulle I use. The white butterfly flutters about Feb-Nov. Oh, and the grasshopper are getting worse so those may work against them while the peppers, eggplants, and tomatoes are less than 2 1/2' tall.

sanderson wrote:Jimmy,  I'm afraid that the wonderful mesh that you use spring, summer and fall would not be adequate shade for lower lats in the brutal sun when the temps get above 100*F.  I would like to slowly make "slip covers" of your mesh to replace the bridal tulle I use.  The white butterfly flutters about Feb-Nov.  Oh, and the grasshopper are getting worse so those may work against them while the peppers, eggplants, and tomatoes are less than 2 1/2' tall.

I know your right, however better than nothing..I think if I had that much of a problem with sun, I'd make a roof over my beds that was removable, or use a material that would better diffuse suns rays.  I think the removable option would be best, controlling the sun at it's highest.

Just received a coupon from Jo-Anns. 60% off one item until Dec 4th.

jimmy cee wrote:..I think if I had that much of a problem with sun, I'd make a roof over my beds that was removable, or use a material that would better diffuse suns rays.  I think the removable option would be best, controlling the sun at it's highest.

Like this?  

The Agribon fried the plants!!!!  It's definitely better for freeze protection than shade in this area. . .

Just received a coupon from Jo-Anns. 60% off one item until Dec 4th.

Thanks. Is this it? http://www.joann.com/mesh-white/1948439.html#sz=36&start=1

Yes Sanderson.. I am really referring to raised beds though. Having a roof like is shown would be difficult  to move around although maybe it works where it's at.

I have used shade cloth to keep bugs away, and to shade my plants in the summer.  Seems to work well, and is fairly durable. 
http://www.greenhousemegastore.com/product/50-percent-black-bulk-shade-cloth/shade-cloth

Seems like black would collect the heat.  I don't understand shade cloth....

Jimmy, The over head shade cloth is 6'+ high, so even husband can walk around under it.

SR, Yes, black gets hotter to the touch, but it is also shading plants from part of the sun's direct rays. Mike uses a breathable 50% black screen and I use a breathable tan/brown 75% screen. Audrey uses loose curtain shears. As long as the material does not trap heat.

sanderson wrote:Jimmy,  The over head shade cloth is 6'+ high, so even husband can walk around under it.

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