How Deep Should Mounds Be in a Vegetable Garden?

Mounds are basically hills that are used for planting vegetables in the garden. They differ from rows of vegetables in that mounds are a form of raised gardening. These mounds are built from the surrounding dirt or environment. Mounds are best suited for zucchini, cucumbers, squash and other vining, sprawling plants. Because a group of mounds can take up a great deal of space, some gardeners follow a zig-zag pattern for their mounds. Nevertheless, planting by mounds is especially effective for small gardens.

Planning and Preparing

The first step for creating the mounds is to clear the debris from the area where they will be built. Get rid of any rocks that may be embedded in the soil. After this has been completed, use a spading fork to break up the soil to about 8 to 12 inches down. Now judge the amount of space you will need for each plant. A rule of thumb is to base the distance on how big each plant will get. Normally you will plant three to four seeds in each mound. Later, when the seedlings are growing, depending on the number of seeds you have planted, you can discard two or three.

Advantages

Planting in mounds is beneficial for several reasons. The first obvious benefit is the amount of growing space allotted to each plant. Because the growing space is elevated, there are a few more inches of growing room for the roots. Also, mounds allow for excellent drainage. During times of heavy rain, roots will not be flooded or water saturated. The sloping slides of the mounds give more land surface to warm the soil. Because of the sun's warm rays on the mounds, planting can begin earlier in the spring and last longer into the fall.

Building

To build the mound, begin by using the garden rake or hoe to pull soil from the surrounding area until a pile, or mound, has been formed. Afterward, ensure that no large dips have been created around the base. However, a shallow moat at the base of the mound will help water retention. One of the key advantages in planting in mounds is that the loose soil, which the mounds are composed of, allows for necessary drainage. Another advantage is that soil conditions can be controlled. You can add compost and nutrient-rich soil to the mound.

Size

The size of mounds varies. Depending on the vegetable, some mounds will be about 2 to 4 inches high and about 3 feet across. However, for most vegetables, for example, for tomatoes, peppers and broccoli, the average can be 6 inches high and a foot across.

Finishing

The final step is to flatten the top of the mound and to smooth the sides so the soil is evenly distributed all the way around the hill or mound. Maintaining the garden is easier after you create these mounds. Also, because you have created natural pathways, getting around in the garden is easier.

References

• "Hilling Plants"; The Gardeners Network
• "Raised-Bed-Gardening Blog"; Mag 8, 2009;