A very enjoyable and informative day was had by WFGA members at Charles Dowding No Dig Workshop. The weather was beautiful – warm and sunny.

Charles told us all about his methods and philosophy of No Dig and showed us around his veg plots, greenhouse and polytunnel. A most productive site. We also saw his experimental beds – dig and no-dig – some with rock dust, some without. Fascinating day.

We had a great day hedgelaying up in Shropshire on Sunday – despite the weather. The forecast had been terrible – and we did experience some very windy conditions together with a couple of showers – but not enough to dampen our spirits.

Our tutor Carl was great in explaining and showing us what to do – it also helped that he had his chainsaw for the really thick stuff which helped speed things up a trifle! but we all had a go at pleaching (cutting through the upright stems of the hedging trees, laying, and staking and binding.

The hedge looked wild and woolly on the one side – this was towards the field and helps prevent livestock from eating the new shoots. On the path side all was neat and tidy. very satisfying.

Carl showing how to bind

Deborah and Jeff working hard at staking

Finished section of hedge

Shaggy hedge on field side