It’s fair to assert that as horticulturists, we tread in the mucky marks left by those who preceded us. Their heritage enlightens and motivates us, guiding us towards improved methods, even if their wise counsel often contradicts conventional practices.
Charles Dowding, a British organic market gardener, author and YouTube personality, and a name etched in the ‘no dig’ movement, got his lifelong fervour for soil health sparked by a series of papers released by the Soil Association. He believed that the concept of health going beyond just being disease-free and was intrigued by how happy, healthy and efficient plants were linked with soil health.
His fascination brought him to the works of previous generations of organic gardeners and farmers who shared the same interest in the mutualistic bond between soil and plant wellbeing, many of whom were integral figures in the organic movement in the postwar periods of the early 20th century. His reverence is for individuals like Albert Howard, Eve Balfour, Edward Faulkner, Esther Deans, Shewell-Cooper, Arthur Guest, FC King, Ruth Stout, and Maye Bruce.
Dowding’s conviction that home-grown compost is the lifeblood of successful no-dig gardening methods, which promote plant health and effectiveness by maintaining soil levels intact, has been reinforced by his 45 years of experience as an organic market gardener.
On his organic market garden, Homeacres in Somerset, the clean geometry of highly productive vegetable beds are conventionally blanketed every fall with compost produced onsite through a seven-bay system. His technique includes “A one-inch thick layer for mature beds, more for new beds, which can be planted immediately upon being formed. The process begins with a sheet of cardboard on the ground for preventing weed growth, followed by a four- to six-inch thick layer of homemade compost”.
The essential technique of compost-making involves various organic substances converting into a nutrient-rich, soil-enhancing material, thanks to the decay process initiated by numerous beneficial organisms, most of which are undetectable to the human eye. This process is delved into in the new book ‘Compost’ (Dorling Kindersley) by the author.
The author recognised the confusion and apprehension many people experience due to a plethora of advice, leading to numerous queries directed at him such as whether weeds can be added to compost heaps or what’s the ideal ratio of green to brown materials, among others. The author intended to simplify this process for gardeners through explaining the science behind it with his new book.
The book manages to explain the process in a lucid, convincing and unique manner, replete with informative graphics, charts, and captivating wood engravings by British artist Jonathan Gibbs. The book assures readers that the final compost need not be flawlessly crumbly but just efficient enough for its intended purpose – lumps are acceptable, too, with fine crumbs needed only for replanting.
Decades of research and meticulous tracking have demonstrated that homemade compost mulches in conjunction with a no-dig approach can significantly enhance plant yield and health.
Adding weeds, most types of diseased plants, hedge clippings, citrus peels, eggshells, small proportions of decayed woodchip, and fallen Autumn leaves to the compost heap is encouraged. However, avoid adding potatoes affected by blight to prevent the disease from surviving through the winter.
Weed seeds and pathogens can be effectively exterminated by maintaining the compost heap around 50-55 degrees, which also accelerates the composting process. However, it’s more vital to prevent the weed material from getting light.
A privately owned compost heap that is properly maintained and filled over a quarter of a year should be fit for use within half to three-quarters of a year, and even up to a year or more if you wish it to be exceptionally crumbly, as suggested by garden expert Dowding. Contrary to the common assumption that slatted sides are the go-to option, he proposes using solid walls to enhance heat retention.
Dowding recommends a 3:1 ratio of nitrogen-rich green materials to carbon-heavy brown materials, but stipulates that this isn’t a stringent rule. He dismisses the idea of meticulously sorting compost materials to achieve this ideal compost composition, quipping that one mustn’t devote their limited time to such a task.
Addressing some green thumbs who worry about the threat freshly mulched beds, left uncovered during winter, might pose to the soil’s health, Mr. Dowding offers assurances that the singular properties of domestically produced garden compost provide full protection and do not necessitate supplemental covers, like cardboard or plastic sheeting.
The substantial lessening of weeds, conditional on diligent manual and routine weeding or hoeing of any emergent seedlings, is an added advantage of the process. He confirms this strategy works for slugs and also counters the need for watering in drought conditions.
Moreover, he presents succinct guidance on assembling domestic compost bays, detailing optimal sizes, insulating techniques, and maintenance suggestions. He provides an inclusive review of alternatives for compact gardens, ranging from reasonably priced Dalek-style cone bins to more lavish models like the Hotbin, in addition to Wormeries and Bokashi-style methods depending on fermentation instead of classic decomposition.
In reply to criticisms suggesting that the average household will not be able to generate a sufficient quantity of homemade compost to meet their gardening needs, Dowding conveys his continuous quest for compost materials, from unwanted weed and grass cuttings from gardening peers to the natural by-products of tree surgeons’ work like clippings and woodchips. He contends that purchasing supplements like manure to add to compost piles is a worthy and cost-effective investment for gardening aficionados.
Decades of persistent study and meticulous data collection have demonstrated to me that the utilisation of domestically produced compost mulches, incorporated into a no-dig method, significantly enhances both the output and wellbeing of plants. This negates the necessity for costly treatments such as manufactured fertilisers and chemical-based pest and disease solutions traditionally employed in horticulture. Moreover, it’s exceptionally beneficial for the Earth’s health.
Being a devoted practitioner of organic gardening throughout his life, does he feel that a gradual but certain shift is happening? “You know, I’m hopeful, but the degree of opposition out there is still unexpectedly substantial. Time will reveal the outcome.”
This week’s horticultural activities:
Start planting and sowing polytunnel crops suitable for winter and early spring. Consider vegetables like Oriental salad leaves, sturdy lettuce, and land cress.
Plant overwintering garlic varieties outdoors in the kitchen garden or allotment, and sow broad beans.
Mark your calendars:
The Organic Centre, Rossinver, County Leitrim will host a series of two single-day workshops, offered by Charles Dowding – an organic gardener and no-dig connoisseur. The workshops will be taking place on Saturday, October 26th, and Sunday, October 27th. Prior booking is mandatory. Visit theorganiccentre.ie or dial 0719854338 for more details.