When is it too late

[jardinseducatifs]

We are converting a largish pasture (600m2) to a community garden. How late can we still use a no dig approach?

March?
April?
May?

[charles]

 I guess you mean "when to apply a first mulch on the pasture".

If using polythene mulch, of those three months, early March is best, to allow time for pasture to die, and if you spread 1-2 inches manure/compost before covering, that makes a nice surface by late May for planting.

If using 4-6 inches manure/compost on pasture, weeds etc, you can spread it the day before planting if needs must, though I prefer a week or so for the organic matter to settle.

Many options and not just a question of timing. 

[jardinseducatifs]

Thanks for your advice. This means that whenever we get the paperwork sorted out, we can still prepare the beds by putting 6in compost on and planting straight into that. Will make it a lot easier and should create a bit of a stir here where no dig gardening is largely unknown (Il vous faut biner, Madame!)

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