How to create a new garden?

michellebrown

Hi

I want to turn the paved area into a garden.  I'm assuming I'd need to put some topsoil down but how deep would the layer need to be.

It used to be a garden bed about a year ago.

I'll mulch it well as well to try and keep the weeds to a minimum.

Any other tips would be appreciated.

Michelle 

a minimum.

Any other tips would be appreciated.

Michelle

JacobZ

Hi @michellebrown,

Thank you for your question.

After removing the pavers, you may find that the soil beneath them is in fairly good condition, meaning you wouldn't need to add any additional soil or products, or you could find that it is fairly rough and void of nutrients. Your best course of action depends on what is beneath.

If it is void of nutrients, you should add a layer of compost or manure around 100mm thick then mix and turn the soil with a garden fork to incorporate it. This will add organic matter to the soil that will break down and create a fantastic growing medium. 

If you find there is a lot of clay, then in addition to compost or manure, you should add gypsum, which will help to break up the clay and promote better drainage.

Outside of this, regular watering and applications of fertilisers and plant conditioners like Seasol will have your garden bed producing beautiful plants in no time.

Allow me to tag @robchin, @Noelle and @mich1972 to see if they have any tips they can add.

Let me know what you think and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob