It's better to use a fork than a spade as it penetrates the clay more easily. The stones and hardcore need to be removed before any decision can be made about how much the level needs building up and yes, it will settle which is why it's best to spend the time between now and autumn removing all the crud and forking it over and then mulching, mulching, mulching.
It's worth doing this process well rather than being precipitate about getting stuff planted and then watching it fail or struggle.
Vendée - 20kms from Atlantic coast.
"The price good men (and women) pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men (and women)."
Posts
It's worth doing this process well rather than being precipitate about getting stuff planted and then watching it fail or struggle.