digging techniques

[Snadger]

I was thinking of electric tools (Tillers, Strimmers etc) when I asked. I grow in the garden so do not have the same problems. My back could not take all of that digging.

After seeing quite a few big strapping blokes being thrown around like rag dolls whilst using hired rotavators, I think my back would be better suited to digging than riding the waltzer with a rotovator in my hand!

As it happens, my digging days are hopefully now over, as after a major first dig of the allotments I have now adopted a 'no dig' strategy, not because I can't dig but because I don't now feel the need to! Tickling soil and adding heavy mulches is the way forward for me now!

[Bigmallly]

I have now adopted a 'no dig' strategy, not because I can't dig but because I don't now feel the need to! Tickling soil and adding heavy mulches is the way forward for me now!

That's exactly where I am at now Snadge, the only tool that touches the soil is my trusty hoe & of course my trowel. Long may it continue.

[Eco-Chic]

I used a fork for digging cos I had very heavy sticky clay and some wag appeared to have buried bricks, terracotta pots, broken plates, milk bottles and a galvanised dustbin in my garden during the past 100 years and it was easier to work the fork through rather than a spade.

Soil is much improved now but it is a habit, I think, to reach for the fork to dig. Soil still caps and the dogs compact it so it is still easier. I may have a go with the rotavator when I've weeded it and moved the plants I want to keep.