I hoe I hoe....:)

[Zoglet]

Howdy, can anyone tell me how often I should hoe my beds? I'm confused cos some books suggest hoeing regularly (whatever that means) to keep weeds at bay. Other books tell me that soil is best left alone to maintain its integrity (and who wants soil with no integrity- right? :) ) -any thoughts on this?

Z ???

[Zoglet]

[tim]

I'm afraid that I'm one who likes to get out with the hoe on a regular basis, especially at about 5am, & certainly before any weed represents a threat to the crop. Like at 2"!

It is said that a tilth conserves moisture. It also allows water penetration?

Since I've done it that way for more than 1/2 a Century, I can't really compare!!

[Zoglet]

would you recommend regular hoeing, even of bare beds awaiting planting? Is there any period of interval I should follow?

Z

[tim]

Noooooo! - be grateful for a bare bed & leave well alone.

The later the 'preparation for planting or sowing is left the better. I think!!

And, for Brassica, don't fluff it up.

[Zoglet]

Thanks Tim!

[Tee Gee]

I'm with Tim 100%

[tim]

Remember that, if you see a weed surfacing, there is at least 3" of root underneath & counting!!

[Robert_Brenchley]

I use mulch rather than the hoe, it saves me so much work round the year. It's the only way I can keep on top of the plot.