Homestead mailing list

[Gene GeRue <genegerue AT ruralize.com>]

On Apr 1, 2007, at 5:38 PM, Clansgian AT wmconnect.com wrote:

> I used to be a true devotee of Bro.
> John Jeavons and dug those 4' wide 24" deep trenches with a shovel,  
> (although
> he too recommends loosening the bottom with a fork).  Experience  
> gave my
> grave misdoubts about the use of such extreme digging.

Let us reason it out. What are the possible benefits of deep digging?  
I can think of superior drainage, aeration, superior root  
penetration. Anything else, save archeological finds? As James notes,  
four to six inches, certainly eight inches, is all most roots need. I  
grow nothing that needs 24" for roots. Seriously deep-rooted plants,  
say alfalfa, are very strong and push their roots through native,  
compacted soil.