Charles answered Charles replied once in this thread. Jump to his answer ↓
Hello, hope this is posted in the right place but I acquired an allotment last September and not knowing any better then dug 3/4 of it removing roots of nettles, brambles, glass bottles etc etc. Then covered it for winter with weed suppressant.
Having read much of this site and currently Charles’ books. I wonder if I can now put the 3″ of compost straight onto the dug ground and get started with my new no dig life?
Hi. Charles is the expert but it sounds like a good idea to get compost spread asap, ready for the coming seasons growing. Not necessarily a bad thing digging over an allotment to clean the soil of any rubbish left by past tennants ( glass, brick, concrete etc.) and then leaving it to an undisturbed future, but this is not a necessity as Charles has demonstrated at Homeacres.
This is based on the assumption you have no perennial weeds (bindweed, couch, horsetail etc.) – if so, you may need to replace the light excluding membrane for a full season. Best of luck with your growing, it is a very satisfying hobby and Charles is an inspirational gardener to help you along the way 🙂
Welcome Topsy.
Yes, no dig starts when you stop digging and disturbing soil. Stringfellow’s points are good.
A compost mulch to feed soil life is great. 3in sounds good though less is possible, except more weeds may push through.
Thank you both, very helpful, may have to do this gradually as the amount of compost to start is quite daunting and my allotment is not roadside or accessible with a larger vehicle so buying in bulk is not really an option. Really looking forward to growing this way,, makes such sense!
No Dig: Nurture Your Soil to Grow Better Veg with Less Effort£25.00