Becky Searle from The Seed Pot recently contributed an article to our blog - What is No Dig Gardening? It proved popular with our customers so we thought we'd expand on Becky's article for those who may not yet be convinced of this approach.

No dig gardening at home

It's fair to say no dig gardening is mostly associated with growing vegetables. But it's an equally effective method for those of us who grow ornamental plants. But what exactly is it?

To quote Becky's article: "No dig gardening is an age-old approach that involves not digging the soil. Instead, it replicates patterns found in nature, where leaves fall to the ground once a year, replenishing the organic matter in the soil."

But what are the benefits of no dig gardening? Here's a list for you to think about.

20 benefits of no dig gardening

1 - Hands off soil maintenance:

By its very nature of course no dig gardening avoids disturbing the soil structure. This allows the soil to retain its natural composition which helps ornamental plants to thrive. In turn soil becomes more effective at absorbing moisture and retaining water.

2 - Promotes microorganisms in the soil:

If soil is undisturbed, it helps the growth of microorganisms which make the soil ricker and healthier to encourage plant growth. In essence no dig gardening breaks down organic matter into the nutrients which plants love.

3 - Preserves moisture:

Because no dig gardening helps the soil retain moisture it reduces the need for frequent watering. Which is great for those of us who don’t enjoy traipsing back and forth with a watering can. It also reduces the stress on plants during hot spells and hosepipe bans.

4 - Weed Control:

A big part of no dig gardening is mulching; a process which naturally suppresses weeds. This reduces competition for nutrients and gives your ornamental plants a better chance to thrive. And of course, it also gets rid of ugly and space invading weeds.

5 - Retains nutrients:

By not frequently digging, the soil can better retain its nutrients, providing a rich feeding ground for ornamental plants to flourish.

6 - Minimises soil erosion:

By not turning the soil, you’ll lessen the chances of topsoil erosion, especially in those areas of the UK which are prone to heavy rains (most of it) or winds (some of it). Soil erosion can be damaging as it can lead to the loss of valuable nutrients.

7 - Reduces your carbon footprint:

No dig gardening contributes to carbon sequestration, reducing your home’s carbon footprint. It may only be a small thing but by practising no dig gardening you’re contributing to the fight against climate change.

8 - Encourages healthy root systems:

Your new no dig gardening helps your plants to establish deeper and healthier root systems, which in turn leads to stronger and more robust plants by increasing stability and resilience to harsh weather conditions.

9 - Saves the back:

No surprise that no dig gardening involves less digging. Ideal for those of us who are martyrs to our backs. Seriously, it helps make gardening more accessible to a wider range of people including those with mobility issues or who are looking to make their hobby less physically demanding.

10 - Helps your neighbourhood worms:

Don’t underestimate this one. Undisturbed soil encourages earthworms to create natural channels for roots to expand which also helps to channel water. This all helps to make plants healthier and stronger. Those friendly worms also help break down organic matter and even recycle nutrients in the soil.

11 - Better disease and pest control:

No dig gardening creates a healthy soil ecosystem which will help keep plant diseases and pests away from our plants. And of course, this means we don’t have to rely on chemicals. Which is always a good thing.

12 - Plan your garden:

No dig gardeners have greater creative control over the design of their garden throughout the seasons. They are able to plan well in advance what they are going to plant and grow knowing their soil will be nutritious and ready for planting.

13 - Suitable for any soil type:

Put that PH tester away. No dig methods work well in a variety of soil types. If you’ve got less than great soil no dig gardening will be a winner for you.

14 - Sustainable gardening:

If you’re keen on adopting or expanding your eco-friendly gardening principles this is the method for you.

15 - No more compact soil:

No dig gardening reduces soil compaction. All of which means it's easier for your plants’ roots to expand. This makes it easier for them to access water and nutrients.

16 - Greater biodiversity:

The diverse soil life you’ll encourage will enhance plant health and also makes for a robust ecosystem in your garden.

17 - Consistent soil temperature:

A by-product of no dig gardening is the consistent soil temperature it maintains prevents sudden plant shock. This will encourage stable conditions to help your plants’ growth habit.

18 - Saves money:

You’ll reduce your reliance and save the cost of synthetic fertilisers and pesticides. So, you will save money in the long run without compromising on the health of your plants.

19 - Banish plant shock:

By minimising the disturbance to the soil, the risk of plant shock is greatly reduced. Which is a great help when introducing new plants into your garden.

20 - Beautiful blooms:

All the benefits we’ve listed will come together to encourage plant growth and the production of bigger and more beautiful blooms. Which is what we all want at the end of the day.

Is no dig gardening for you?

Why not give it a go? No dig gardening can create the perfect environment for your plants to thrive. It reduces weeds, minimises soil erosion, improves carbon sequestration and promotes a healthier root system. And you can put away the spade for a while. What’s not to like?

For all your plants and shrubs visit our website now and we'll deliver your plants professionally packed and ready for the garden - straight to your door.