How to dig up garden beds covered in rocks?

NettyH

I have these two long small garden beds that have had these rocks down for more than likely a decade, and underneath is weed matting. 

I am wondering the easiest way to dig it out, because it is so compacted that using a shovel is REALLY  hard and I don't have the muscle power to get through it. 

I want to get rid of them and some of the Azelea's and plant some wildflowers and other pollinator favourites. 

Any suggestions on what other options I can use to dig it up?  Thanks ☺️

   

JacobZ

Hi @NettyH,

Shovels are great at moving material, but they're not great for breaking up soil. Digging up compacted ground is much easier if you can break it up before taking a shovel to it.

A mattock would be the best tool for breaking up the soil. It is swung like a pickaxe and then levered to shift and break up the soil.

Another option is a garden fork combined with a good pair of boots or shoes with a thick sole. You can place the fork on the soil, then use your foot to push it into the soil. Once in the soil, similar to the mattock, it can be used like a lever to shift and break up the soil.

For the worst stuff, a Fencing Bar can be used in a similar way to break up the soil, although they are heavy and take a lot of physical effort.

Maybe try a garden fork first, as this would be the least taxing on your body. If you can't break up the soil with that, the mattock would be the next option, and a fencing bar would be your last resort.

With any of these options, it is important to wear long protective clothing, enclosed shoes (preferably steel cap boots), gloves and eye protection to protect yourself against potential injury. 

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

Jacob