What is no dig gardening and what are its advantages?

This Sunday is International No Dig Day, a global initiative promoting a sustainable and efficient gardening method.

It encourages gardeners worldwide to embrace the practice of no-dig gardening, a technique that focuses on minimising soil disturbance.

While the concept might seem counterintuitive, it actually mimics nature and has significant benefits for individual gardeners and the environment.

For years I earned my living growing veg the traditional way with plough, rotavator, and fertiliser.

But I now understand how moving away from digging increases yields of healthy organic fruit and veg with much less effort.

It feels like magic but is based on science.

The Advantages of No-Dig Gardening

The no-dig method is based on the principle that healthy soil is teeming with beneficial microorganisms.

Disturbing the soil can disrupt these microbial communities, leading to less fertile and productive gardens.

By avoiding digging, we can preserve the soil's structure, promote organic matter decomposition, and enhance water retention.

Improved Soil Health: No-dig gardening helps to create a thriving ecosystem in the soil.

The undisturbed layers of organic matter provide a habitat for beneficial bacteria, fungi, and other organisms that contribute to soil fertility.

Reduced Erosion: When soil is disturbed, it becomes more susceptible to erosion.

No-dig gardening helps to anchor the soil in place, preventing it from being washed away by rain or becoming windblown.

Increased Water Retention: Undisturbed soil is better able to absorb and retain moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering.

This is especially important in dry climates or during periods of drought.

Reduced Weeds: By leaving the soil undisturbed, we create a protective layer of organic matter that suppresses weed growth.

This can save time and effort on weeding.

Enhanced Biodiversity: No-dig gardens can support a wider range of plant and animal life.

The healthy soil and undisturbed habitat provide ideal conditions for a variety of beneficial insects, birds, and other creatures.

No-Dig Gardening and Food Forests

The concept of no-dig gardening aligns perfectly with the principles of food forests such as the Community Food Forest at Sidford.

Food forests are diverse ecosystems that mimic natural forests, with a focus on perennial plants that produce food.

By avoiding digging, we can create a stable and self-sustaining environment that supports biodiversity and edible plants.

When establishing a food forest, it is important to start with a layer of organic matter, such as compost or wood chips.

This provides a nutrient-rich base for the plants and helps to suppress weeds.

Once the organic matter is in place, plants can be added without disturbing the soil.

As the food forest matures, the plants will create their own microclimate and help to maintain soil health.

Taking the Leap to No-Dig Gardening

If you're interested in trying no-dig gardening, there are a few key steps to follow:

1. Prepare the Soil: Start by covering the area you want to garden with cardboard or newspaper. This will help to suppress weeds but isn’t essential in many cases.
2. Add Organic Matter: Layer on a thick layer of organic matter, such as well-rotted compost or farmyard manure, leaves, or straw. The more organic matter you add, the better.
3. Plant Your Seeds or Plants: Carefully plant your seeds or seedlings directly into the organic matter. Avoid disturbing the soil beneath. This prevents a lot of weed growth.
4. Mulch: Mulch around your plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the soil from erosion.

By following these simple steps, you can begin to reap the benefits of no-dig gardening and create a more sustainable and productive garden.

To learn more about No Dig or to volunteer at the Food Forest, contact us via Sidmouth Community Food Forest on Facebook, or join the SVBG newsletter at https://sidvalleybiodiversity.org/