Raised beds.

This year I,m going to try Chinese Permaculture. This involves gridding the veggy plot into raised areas held in place with wooden batons attached to stakes. I have fed the soil with over half a ton of cowdung, chickenshit and compost so hope for some spectacular results. I have'nt used the mechanical rotovator this year because it kills the worms, and worms play an important part in this type of horticulture. This is a no dig arrangement for up to five years.

You use the grass cuttings for mulch, which keeps the weeds down, and also to feed the worms. The worms, in turn keep the soil aerated and workable. This is a crude first attempt at Chinese Permaculture so wish me luck.....