[Don@VB]

I have several raised planter beds with kale and Swiss Chard.
What is the reasoning behind changing the soil in raised beds?
I’ve heard it recommended but never knew the reason. Any info appreciated!

[Tilted Irish Kilt]

Don@VB:" What is the reasoning behind changing the soil in raised beds? "

Certain plants require mineral use intensive than other varieties in order to grow .
Plants of the brasscia family (kale, cabbage,brussel sprouts,kohrabbi,etc.) require more calcium from the soil;
Not changing out the soil will result in stunted plants, and more susceptability to disease .
Crop rotation, soil testing, and soil amendments will minimze disease and provide for healthier plants .

[greeneyes]

I don’t change the soil in my raised beds. I just add compost/nutrients and green manure such as winter rye and hairy vetch to turn under come spring.

When you grow veggies, the nutrients in the soil are used up and need to be replaced. Perhaps some people are simply dumping the soil, and adding new, but it is more self sufficient and cheaper to have a compost pile and add the compost to your raised bed.

Another reason might possibly be if you have some sort of soil borne disease in the bed, and you wanted to sterilize the bed and then add new soil? Just a guess.

[Tilted Irish Kilt]

Don see what bgill (post #43 ) said .
There are many members of the same family that need to be rotated, otherwise you risk crop failure by keeping in the exact same location .

You may see many references to various books on this forum. Make a list of books you may wish to review.
Your public library is your friend for books to borrow !
Two books that I highly reccomend: "Crockets Victory Garden "(maybe out of print), and " Square Foot Gardening".
The internet is a good source of general information, but you will get lots of information right here ! As greeneyes says: " There is no such thing as a stupid question .." , just ask here in this forum , you are among Freeper friends