Ever heard of a hügelkultur? It is an old-world gardening method, originating in Germany, that involves mounding soil over top of woody debris such as logs, branches, twigs, and leaves.
The rationale behind this method is that while the organic matter decomposes it provides nutrients to improve soil fertility. The different size of each type of matter, logs versus leaves for example, means that each will decompose at different rates.
Smaller items provide more immediate fertility while thicker logs will take years to break down (consistently providing nutrients all along). Think of it as long-term composting.
You can still have a compost bin to amend the soil now and again. With or without the additional compost though, your plants will still be getting the necessary nutrients.
Decomposing matter produces heat which is beneficial in a couple of ways. The warm soil helps seeds to germinate and extends the growing season for those in cooler climates.
Mounded gardens also have an incredible ability to retain water, even during a drought. If you live in a drought prone area you can capitalize on this water retention by planting native plants that will require less water.
The rotting logs, beneath the surface of the mound, act as a sponge that holds moisture. The roots of the above plants find their way to that moisture pocket in the absence of rain.
Ready to build your hügelkultur? Let’s jump into it!
Build Your Underlayer
Your underlayer should consist of large logs and smaller woody matter like leaves, sticks, and branches.
Drag logs and pile in a row. Next, pile larger sticks on top of and around the logs.
Fill in spaces with twigs, leaves and maybe even some grass clippings.
Moisture Retention
Give the hügelkultur a head start by watering the underlayer. Once, you add soil on top, it will hold in that moisture.
Adding peat moss is optional but it does further improve moisture retention.
Sprinkle it over the soil and mix around. Work into the spaces between woody matter in the underlayer. Give it a spritz of water when you’re done.
Add Topsoil
Turn the pile of debris into a mounded garden by adding some nice soil atop the pile.
We did the “dig and flip” method…yes, I’m pretty sure I made that up, but it fits don’t you think?
Basically, just dig a trench along the sides of the mound. As you dig a clod of dirt out, flip it over so the grass is on the underside and soil is exposed on top.
Now, squish it with your foot to compact the soil around and within the mound. You can see it starting to take shape.
Plant and Water
Now that your mounds are prepared, you can plant your seedlings. Don’t forget to water your new transplants. Don’t worry if you aren’t great at starting seeds. Here is our post with a helpful seed starting hack that works for stubborn seeds!
A light misty watering will help compact soil that is still loose on the mound. We want loose soil to encourage rooting but not so loose that it washes away in heavy rain.
Now sit back and watch your little plants grow into magnificent vegetation. You will only need to water if there is a very dry spell. Otherwise, let the rain and dew absorb into the mound and your job is done.
For weed control, consider some kind of mulch or hay, but as your plants grow larger there should be minimal weeding.
Have fun with your new hügelkultur garden. It will serve you for years to come with healthy and delicious harvests!
