In this module, we explore the results of no dig on different soils, and also how it compares to growth in dug soil. We look at results from the side-by-side trials I run, including the dig/no dig comparison beds which I have cropped every year since 2007. I give you my perspectives on the results.

No dig has, until recently, been frowned on by traditional gardeners and institutions.  However this is now changing. The process of change shows how it can be good to question accepted beliefs. I encourage you to develop your hunches in order to understand gardening more fully.

Lesson 3 – No dig on different soils, from stone to clay

Whether your soil is clay, stony or sandy, no dig is the best method for being time efficient, holding fertility and giving fine harvests. I show you my first market garden on stony limestone soil from 1982, then two market gardens on clay, before the silt of Homeacres. Plus we look at clay in Kent and sand in Florida.

Lesson 4 – Results of my Two Bed Trial

I add my interpretations to the sometimes dramatic differences you see. These beds reveal a lot about both dig and no dig, with comparisons that are always fascinating, including when differences are small.

Lesson 5 – Results of my Three Strip Trial

This wide-ranging trial compares growth when using different composts, and when soil is loosened by forking. In addition, there is a “no rotation” element, and you see the results of growing leeks and cabbage for four years consecutively in the same soil.

Lesson 6 – The jobs you don’t need to do

One of my favourite topics is gardening myths! They are so numerous, and so obvious when you analyse them, and it’s fun to realise how much time we can save. Understanding how they came about also helps us to understand more about how soil and plants are often explained, and how we can spot more mistakes.

NEXT: Module 3 – Laying out beds and paths