Why and How to Grow a Garden without Tilling

Why and How to Grow a Garden without Tilling
Why Grow a No-Till Garden?

1. Healthier Soil: Preserves beneficial fungi and organisms like earthworms.
2. Prevents Erosion: Keeps soil intact, reducing topsoil loss.
3. Fewer Weeds: Limits weed growth by not exposing dormant seeds.
4. Saves Effort: Eliminates the need for labor-intensive tilling.
5. Retains Moisture: Reduces evaporation, especially in dry climates.
   How to Start a No-Till Garden
6. Choose a Sunny Spot: Pick an area suited for your plants.
7. Suppress Weeds: Cover grass or weeds with cardboard or newspaper. Wet it to keep it in place.
8. Add Organic Layers: Spread compost, straw, or leaves as mulch to enrich the soil.
9. Plant Seeds or Seedlings: Make small holes in the mulch and plant directly into the soil.
10. Maintain Mulch: Add more organic matter as needed to suppress weeds and nourish soil.
11. Rotate Crops: Change plant locations yearly to optimize soil nutrients.
    Key Tips
    Use deep-rooted cover crops to improve compacted soil.
    Stay patient as the soil transitions to this method over a season or two.