Not a great start

Garden compost and well rotted FYM will certainly help. This is the right time of year to dig it in. I wouldn't just leave it on the surface as you may need to improve the quality of the soil. A thin layer of compost can then be added to the surface.

We have worked our garden with lots of trees etc. surrounding our veg plots. Digging in compost and FYM every Autumn/Winter has improved the condition and fertility of the soil. With regular improvement of the soil, and the digging that you do for it - removing any encroaching roots, should make it a good veg plot.

Putting a barrier for the roots would certainly help but you could easily get by without it if you continue to improve the soil and dig well each year.

Good luck

 

Don'y get it from a garden centre - don't think they do it and if they do it will be expensive.

You need well rotted horse manure. You can normally get it either from a farm that has horses or from a stables. Stables are usually quite happy for you to come and get it free of charge.

If it's not well rotted then you need to put it in your garden compost heap and leave for a year.

We now have a friend who has Falabella horses (miniatures) and they bring the fresh manure for us. I just dig it in to the compost heaps.

 

I don't know about that and am not sure how much they would use per horse, if they use it all. I never have any problems. I don't think I can attribute my two horns and long tail to that - can I?

 

Hi @RobWar, it depends on what you are planting, for veggies yes go ahead straight away after digging. Some crops like brassicas need firmer soil so you need to tread the soil around as your plant. For lawns you need to compact the soil before sowing.

 

For lawns you do need to compact it well prior to seeding. Walk over it on your heels and use a long board or ladder to ensure it's level. There is no need to wait for it to compact naturally.

Are you planning to turf or seed?

For the ornamental borders there is no need to compact. Just ensure each shrub or plant is firmed in.