As the “No Dig” movement gains momentum, we are exploring the underlying principles behind this concept.

According to a recent report, the soil contains a staggering 2500 billion tonnes of carbon, significantly surpassing the 800 billion tonnes present in the atmosphere and the 560 billion tonnes found in plants and animal life worldwide.

During photosynthesis, plants absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere and transform it into simple sugars, which serve as essential sources of energy for the plant’s growth. This process also leads to the formation of structural compounds like fibers and cellulose. These initial stages are referred to by scientists as carbon sequestration or carbon storage.

There are various ways that we as gardeners can adjust to reduce the amount of carbon that is released within our garden.

Encouraging longer growth in your lawn promotes enhanced root development, boosts photosynthesis (with larger leaf blades resulting in greater carbon uptake), and, in response to rising global temperatures, fortifies the grass against drought.

Cover your soil – either with plants such as perennials or with mulch. Bare soil is prone to erosion and does not foster the best plant growth. Mulch conserves moisture and supplies nutrients as it decomposes. This long-term view will retain carbon in the garden or flower bed. Sources of mulch can be grass, leaves, composed garden waste or even straw.

As an alternative to traditional digging consider covering the vegetable bed or border with cardboard, secured in place with bricks or stones. This method not only alleviates strain on your back but also contributes to environmental benefits by reducing the release of large amounts of carbon into the atmosphere. Additionally, it fosters micro-organisms for a healthier ecosystem by promoting worm activity, preserving soil structure, enhancing yields, and maintaining ground temperature for early spring growth.

Weeds will not grow readily under the cardboard and if they do they can be handpicked or lightly hoed before planting new vegetables. Incorporating homemade compost at this time is ideal and will help with micro-organism activity plus increase the nutrient content of the border/bed.