Hello,
We've recently taken on a plot which ison a very slight slope.Admittedly it seems to have been raining more or less non stop for the past week,but we've noticed that the bottom quarter
seems to get quite waterlogged.
The previous tenant had divided the plot into 5 large beds running across the plot with grass paths between.We'd like to sub divide these into smaller raised beds.
My question is,bearing in mind the slight slope should the beds lie across the slope or down it, to avoid waterlogging-if you see what I mean ???
All advice gratefully received.
Many thanks Sue :)
If they are raised beds then it probably wont matter so much as the water would run around and under the beds, and the beds themselves would drain better any way.
So I would have the beds running 'with' the slope rather than across it, if thats makes sense....
Adrian
I would have the beds running across the slope, ie keeping them horizontal, this would be akin to terracing ...
Derekthefox :D
 Oh dear, multiple choice answers !Now I'm getting really confused ???
 I think I might do as you suggest Wardy and try a mixture of the two and see how we go on.
In addition, are there any veg which would enjoy a damp situation?
   Thank you all for your help.
      Sue :)
why not go for circular ones then you can only be right!
My problem is always too little moisture so cant help there.
   A lot to think about there!Definitely raised beds I think.Will keep you posted on progress!
      Thanks again,Sue
Farmers always plough across a slope to prevent water carrying soil to the bottom and reduce run off. To get even water retention in each bed I would plant across the slope which will help in consistency of beds and crops as well as stopping your paths becoming mini-rivers during heavy rain.
I can't believe I've just agreed with Derek ! but .... *sobz* it makes sense to me in that it should move the water across and around the plot {:¬)#