Rob Smith makes it easier to get around his garden
I’ve been sorting access around my plot to get it winter-ready
As the weather outside becomes more unpredictable, it’s best to take advantage of any fine days to get essential jobs and repairs completed in the garden before the cold of winter makes things difficult. One of the main problems I experienced last year in the new garden was the simple task of getting around the plot, as my garden is on a slope with clay soil; it only takes a bit of rain and the whole site turns into a slippery quagmire.
Most of the raised beds are in situ, so I’ve turned to the task of making it easier to get around the plot. Firstly, there was the choice of what to build my paths from – woodchip, gravel or pavers? The former is cheaper and easier to lay, but doesn’t last long and weeds soon get a hold; the latter is expensive and timeconsuming to lay.
So I opted for larger, 20mm gravel for a couple of reasons. It’s relatively easy to spread and get an even finish, with it being forgiving if the site isn’t completely flat. It’s also heavier than pea shingle and more difficult for neighbouring cats to mistake it for a litter tray! I first laid a layer of weed suppressant material and pinned it down with tent pegs; this ensures most weeds can’t get a hold and if they do, they’re weak and easy to remove. Larger gravel also spreads weight better, meaning the wheelbarrow will roll over the top without sinking into the gravel as it would with smaller stones.
Next, I turned my sights to access between the layers of the garden and decided I needed steps, as putting gravel on a slope just doesn’t work! These were created by using decking planks for ease of construction, plus they have grooves in the wood which should give more grip in wet weather. While I was creating steps and paths, I also made sure any containers had feet under them or a thick 4cm (2in) layer of gravel to aid drainage. This is because pots can become waterlogged in the winter and plants can cope with the cold, but hate cold and wet conditions.