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13 July 2009
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Spade in soil

Digging your garden

Cultivating the soil by digging is fundamental to good gardening. Learn the difference between single and double digging and when the no dig method works.

What to do

Digging the soil is essential for good plant growth. If the soil condition is poor organic matter can be added at the same time as digging.

  • The best time to dig is from October through December when the soil is free from frost.
  • Before digging, make sure the plot is cleared of any weeds.
  • Where an even soil structure is important, such as a vegetable garden, single dig the entire plot.
  • If the ground has not been previously cultivated, or if drainage needs to be improved, the plot will need double digging which you can learn more about on the next page.
  • Simple digging is often the best option for working with irregularly shaped beds or around existing plants.

  • Read More...

Time needed


Allow 30 minutes per square metre

You will need

  • Spade
  • Fork
  • Rake
  • Organic matter

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