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| Growing on top of a Compost heap |
Using the same principles as ‘straw bale’ culture, planting onto a newly formed compost heap can give similar results.
The heat generated by the de-composing compost material will encourage an extensive root system and vigorous growth.
Root activity within the heap will also help to break down the waste material.
Method;
Roughly level the composting material on the compost heap and add a 75-100mm (3”-4”) layer of soil on it.
Add a top-dressing of general fertilizer at recommended rates.
Plant out cultivars such as Courgette/Marrows, and Pumpkins about 900mm (36”) apart.
Alternatively; lay out seed potato tubers on the surface of the added soil 200-225mm (8”-9”) apart and 300-350mm (12”-14”) between rows, cover these with black plastic sheeting.
After a few weeks small humps will appear on the surface of the plastic, this is haulms (tops) of the potato emerging; cut X slots in the plastic to allow the haulms to emerge into the light.
Alternatively; cover the tubers with straw or grass clippings, adding more to the layer as the haulms grow.
To harvest; pull aside the plastic/straw/clippings and remove the potatoes as required.
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