Q What is hügelkultur?
A This German word translates as ‘hill’-or ‘mound’-culture, and is a traditional way of cultivating veg in a raised bed. Logs, branches and leaves are mounded up in a shallow trench then covered with a thick layer of soil. As the wood slowly breaks down it releases heat and helps conserve moisture in the soil, helping tender vegetables such as courgettes and pumpkins thrive.
In a much smaller container like this, these beneficial effects will be smaller, but its still worth a go as it can help reduce your compost costs by filling up the lower space with alternative, free, natural materials. Good wood types to use include apple, oak, maple, birch, willow, poplar or pine. Avoid laburnum and laurel, which are toxic.
In some situations…
