Amateur Gardening

Focus on… Compact plots

IT’S official – UK gardens are getting smaller (by about 1% per decade, to be precise). And with larger plots harbouring more weeds and extra work, it’s no surprise that small-space gardening is popular with time-strapped growers. Luckily, there are loads of successful ways to grow crops in compact gardens…

Healthier soil, better varieties

Closer spacings and more intensive cropping is only successful if your soil is up to scratch. Adding bulky organic matter (like well-rotted manure or garden compost) helps add nutrients and lock in moisture. Dig a 3in (8cm) layer into the top spade’s depth of soil. If you’re growing in pots, opt for a brand with extra nutrients and water-retaining materials (such as Gro-Sure Container & Basket Compost). If container gardening is your main focus, install plenty of water butts and install a drip irrigation

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