Our garden is very much a blank canvas but having been here a year, we’re keen to create a garden for everyone to enjoy.

Our first project is a no-dig veg bed. The no-dig method is kinder on the soil structure as it isn’t being constantly disrupted. Worms and other organisms are left to their own devices meaning that the ecosystem of the soil is intact.

We have created the bed (measuring 2m x 6m) using sleepers which we have relocated from another part of the garden. Because they were here before us, we don’t know whether they have been treated with any chemicals so we are lining them with some plastic (old compost bags) to prevent any chemicals from entering the soil.

The no-dig method consists of layering cardboard onto the grass that is here and then covering it with a layer of compost and manure. It is important to overlap the cardboard so that there are no gaps. Also make sure you water it – this helps it to break down, and prevents it blowing away.

On top of the cardboard we have added a layer of well-mixed multi-purpose compost (peat-free of course), rotted manure and top soil approximately 15cm thick. Once this is spread, walk over it to bed it in and firm it down (don’t over-do it, you’re not trying to compact it), this will give you a good base to plant into.

Next up… planting.

We will be sharing more updates from Will, Emma and the team on our Facebook pages over the coming week, keep an eye out!

Keep us posted

We would love to see what you’re up to in your garden. Search for Coolings on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter and keep us posted.