There two reasons for using this method, one the soil is rubbish and would take a truck load of compost to get it right, two to save my back!
The photo's in order show the process,
1. Lay copious amounts of Rock Dust (if you can't get Dust then use Gypsum on heavy soils) to help open up this heavy clay soil long term and add slow release fertiliser.
2. Lay cardboard as a weed barrier and mulch for worms and then Cow Manure on that for fertiliser for the crop.
3. Apply approx 150mm of partially composted mulch that will support the crop and long term improve the difficult soil
4. Cover that with Rock Dust and Lime to help the Mulch sweeten and supply more nutrients for the crop.
5. Water that in well then tramp the mulch down to get excessive air out of it, lay the seed (corn in this case) and then good quality compost on top of the seed.
The last photo is of a row I have prepared the same way but using Red Rock Dust, this is for the Capsicums.
These particular areas are into their second year of No Dig Gardening, the soil has become more open and friable, I much prefer this system for its results as opposed to the usual turning over of the soil.
Be Happy,
Barry.www.organic-vegetable-garden.net
