Mark Garrett on 'no dig' gardening and how it applies to viticulture

Growing soil refers to creating a nutrient-rich medium by introducing organic matter like compost, which then becomes available to feed plants. This contrasts with simply fertilizing plants directly; primary attention is given to nurturing the soil, which subsequently provides nutrients to plants through their roots.

No-dig gardens are beneficial because they involve building layers of organic material above the ground, which helps prevent nutrient loss from rainfall, introduces necessary elements like nitrogen and carbon, and encourages natural decomposition that feeds plants without disturbing the ecosystem.

Organic matter tends to lower the pH of the soil, which is useful for achieving the neutral pH needed for vegetable growth, especially in areas with high natural alkalinity.

Mulching helps retain soil moisture, prevents nutrient loss, reduces weed growth, encourages the presence of beneficial microorganisms, and ultimately contributes to soil building as the organic matter breaks down.

Weeds should be seen as beneficial since they protect and repair soil, much like a scab on a wound. Instead of just pulling them out, they can be slashed and left in place, potentially covered with materials like newspaper or cardboard to inhibit further growth while they decompose and enrich the soil.

Sheet mulching is a technique where materials like cardboard are laid over the top of weeds, acting as a barrier to light and preventing their growth. This method is part of no-dig gardening and enables the organic matter from the weeds to be incorporated into the soil-building process.

Farmers may choose not to plow to avoid disrupting the delicate balance and structure of the soil, especially if it has a thin topsoil layer. Alternatives, like deep-rooted plowing systems that do not turn the soil over, may be used instead to aerate the soil without causing harm to the organic life in it.