Tools and techniques: no dig bed prep

Charles Dowding
Charles Dowding
7 followers
24 Video Views·Jul 12, 2023

Use less time and effort, for better results. Know and be familiar with a few key tools you need. Video inspired by a conversation with Stephanie Hafferty, from questions asked on the FB Group Undug.
I show efficient and easy use of just a few tools. We start with moving compost in my old wheelbarrow, a vital tool.
You see how a manure fork contrasts with a digging fork. I use the former to load a wheelbarrow, and break lumps of compost so that spreading is more even and compost is then more available to soil organisms

You see a bed of carrots we are harvesting, and how the soil is a little disturbed and uneven after the pull. Learn how to grow no dig carrots in my books, such as this double offer https://charlesdowding.co.uk/product/double-pack-no-dig-gardening-course-book-1-and-2021-gardening-calendar-both-signed/

I show using a rake & explain why levelling is good, for even distribution of compost, then it's easier to hoe, plant and sow.
I spread compost and make level either with the manure fork.
I explain firming and use my foot, if sowing or planting immediately

Maintain the bed and path weed free. If coming back later, say very early spring, you may need to Hoe. I show how to use it effectively.
Also how to remove perennial weed roots with a Trowel, using bindweed as an example.

Transplanting: it's easiest and quickest to pop in small plants.
How to make a hole - I show use of a Dibber.
How to plant with a trowel eg potato seed

Tidy edge - I show our method of keeping it neat, thanks to Josh Rogers fo input. See another video about this in Module 4 of my online course https://charlesdowding.co.uk/product/online-course-1-no-dig-gardening-module-4/

Timecodes:
00:00 Introduction
01:00 Loading compost with a manure fork or shovel and breaking up lumps
05:00 Difference between homemade compost and horse manure
06:45 Compost bucket and harvesting carrots

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