Garden Bed Math · New bed log
New in-ground bed log
Bed: Year:
| # | Step | Done | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stake the bed: L x W (ft) = sq ft | ||
| 2 | Water 2 or 3 days before you start | ||
| 3 | Route: dig it in / sheet mulch (circle one) | ||
| 4 | Dig: lift sod about 1 in deep | ||
| 5 | Dig: 2 in compost, fork 6 to 8 in deep | ||
| 6 | Sheet: mow, 3 to 4 soaked sheets, overlap 3 to 4 in | ||
| 7 | Sheet: layers 3 in or less, end brown | ||
| 8 | Cu ft = sq ft × inches ÷ 12 | ||
| 9 | Bags = cu ft ÷ bag size, round up | ||
| 10 | Spring: 1 to 2 in screened compost for seeds | ||
| 11 | Log height in fall and in spring |
Notes:
Source: OSU Extension EM 9480, sheet mulch, checked October 11, 2026. Planning record, not a guarantee. Soil questions: ask your county extension office. · gardenbedmath.com/soil/new-in-ground-bed/