Hugelkultur

Hugelkulture is the process of composting large woody material and at the same time creating a beneficial raised gardenbed.

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The German (or 'Magic') mound composting method is a good way of dealing with excess amounts of woody garden wastes, for example prunings, hedge clippings, brassica stems, brashwood, and so on.

In summary, the technique involves digging a circular trench about 1' deep and 5' wide, in the centre of which is dug another 1' deep hole into which the rough material is piled. Turves are then stacked face down onto this pile, then layers of compost, well rotted leaves, manure, etc. are added. The layers gradually break down slowly releasing nutrients and creating rich humus over four or five years; this is ideal for growing hungry crops such as courgettes or strawberries.