THE ‘ NO DIG ’ METHOD OF GARDENING
The allotment in August is usually a busy place , as well as a social hub for like-minded growers as they come together to exchange ideas and offer help and advice . A communal allotment tends to draw people together . But some folks don ’ t quite fit in with the traditional crowd . Take the ‘ no-dig ’ gardeners , for example . This is no longer viewed as being lazy and many people have abandoned their habits of digging and double-digging . This physically demanding task is widely regarded as unnecessary and damaging . Digging tends to destroy healthy soil crumb , as does the heavy application of fertilisers and garden chemicals . It damages the extensive network of mycorrhizal fungi , which help plant roots to access what they need .
The most important aspects of good soil are the structure and the life within it . Air and water within the soil are vital , as is the microbial life in the form of bacteria and fungi . Old roots within the soil are immensely beneficial because they help to form structure and sustain a healthy population of bacteria , which secrete organic ‘ glues ’ that bind soil particles to provide a good crumb . Earthworms also fulfil a vital function , working endlessly to incorporate organic matter into the soil and gently mixing up the soil crumb .
It is easy to see why a ‘ no-dig ’ gardening approach might be better for the soil , plant health and the gardener too ! The method is ideal in a kitchen garden and allotment , including within raised beds and generally within the flower garden .
How to create a ‘ no-dig ’ bed Preparation can commence at any time of the year :
• Mark out an area , cut down weed growth to ground level , remove the debris and put it onto the compost heap .
• Create grass-free pathways for access , using wood chippings , bark or stone mulch to prevent grass from spreading into your growing area .
• Cover the surface of your growing plot with cardboard or another biodegradable substance , to block out light and
26 < Boxmoor Direct < August 2024 <