Orientation-Planning beds

[BenF]

Hi,

I am currently converting my allotment to no dig and am in the process of preparing my beds. My allotment runs north/south but is quite narrow. I also have a slight east/west slope. Most of my old beds ran N/S.

The section I am converting is approx 5m wide and 18m length with paths running lengthways. I know north/south is the most commonly agreed way to align beds but wanted peoples thoughts.

My best plan is running 5m 1.2m beds east/west with 45cm paths between. Positives: slopewind and particularly access. I can get 9 beds in with ease.

Running beds north/south would be tight with 5m wide (could stretch to 5.5m with a lot of work).

Will orientation make that much difference?

I have and load of mushroom compost ready to go on so want to be sure first!

[charles]

Hi Ben, the N-S advice applies only if you alternated lots of tall veg and low-growers.
Most veg are not tall.
SOme of my beds run ENE-WSW and everything grows fine, I would do the E-W for those other excellent reasons.

[BenF]

Hi Charles,

Thanks for the reply. That makes me feel a lot better. Everything else feels right about how I am setting it up, especially the access and being able to keep on top of the weeds!

Most of my plants are low anyway. I am planning some borlotti and czar beans but will try keep them to the north at west side of the plot (wigwams as it can get quite windy up here).

Really excited about trying no dig properly this year. Your you tube videos and recent book are brilliant!

[Author]

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