Preparedness
Unlock the Secret to Effortless Raised Garden Beds
A gardening technique with deep roots in Germany, hugelkultur has been gaining traction thanks to permaculturist Sepp Holzer. This innovative approach to gardening involves creating a mound by piling logs and smaller branches, then covering them with layers of organic materials like leaves, sod, compost, and soil. The result is a raised bed that resembles a small hill.
Variations on this method exist, including an approach where a trench is dug first and filled with the same materials, resulting in a shorter raised bed. Enthusiasts of traditional raised beds have adapted the concept by constructing walls and filling the base with logs and twigs before adding the typical soil mix, a design known as a hugelkultur raised bed.
As the organic matter decomposes, the mound gradually shrinks, requiring a rebuild approximately every five years. This method is particularly favored for raised garden beds, as it helps fill space that would otherwise require a significant amount of soil. “Finding enough dirt to fill a tall raised bed can be difficult, but throwing in the logs, branches and other organic material sure helps take up space.”
Regardless of the style chosen, the layering technique remains consistent. It’s crucial not to overdo the wood layer; a minimum of 6 inches of soil should cover the wood, with 8-10 inches being preferable, especially for root crops. This means the taller the bed, the larger the logs that can be used, but they should never exceed half the bed’s height.
Selecting the right type of wood is important. Avoid allelopathic or rot-resistant woods like cedar and black walnut. Instead, opt for softwoods like pine or hardwoods such as oak and maple. Logs that are already decomposing and spongy are ideal.
Start by packing the wood tightly, using a variety of sizes with the largest pieces at the bottom. Once in place, water the wood thoroughly to allow it to absorb moisture, which it will release gradually. This step can be skipped if the wood is pre-soaked before placement. Keep in mind, new plants won’t have deep roots initially, so irrigation is necessary, ideally with a drip system on a timer set to water before dawn.
The decomposition within the mound increases soil temperature, extending the growing season. “This means that not only can you start seeds earlier, but you’ll likely be able to keep harvesting food for a good few weeks later than the average gardener.” If planting early or harvesting late, protect seedlings from frost with cloches, burlap, or similar materials.
For those looking to further extend the growing season, incorporating hoop houses with raised beds is an option worth exploring, though that’s a topic for another time.
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