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Building a raised bed on clay soil

loisamarshallloisamarshall Posts: 8
in Problem solving
Hi all! I’ve recently removed some of the concrete paving slabs in my front garden as I’d like to plant a hedge. Underneath was a lot of rubble and clay soil - I’ve removed most of the rubble and added some manure and compost to the clay to break it up a bit. So I’m going to build a low brick wall at the edge of the patio then fill the trench with topsoil.

I’m wondering what I should put between the clay / topsoil to improve drainage? Some sort of protective layer / grit / sand? As you can see from the photo - drainage is not good! 

Beginner here so ideas most welcome. Also - recommendations for hedge plants? Don’t want anything too formal , just for a bit of privacy!

thanks all! 

Posts

  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    Rotted manure.
    It will open up the clay as well as providing a good basis for any planting. You can add some compost as well if you want, but it isn't necessary.
    Whatever you do - don't put topsoil in there on it's own. You can mix it in with the manure if you want though. 
    It will all settle over time, so be prepared to top it up before planting anything.

    There are loads of hedging plants, depending on what you like and your climate. 

    Take a look here for ideas, and it's worth getting bare root plants to save money. You can then spend that money on the manure  ;)
    https://www.hopesgrovenurseries.co.uk/
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
  • loisamarshallloisamarshall Posts: 8
    Thanks, that’s great! I’ve already added 50L of manure and mixed it in with the clay.
    is this enough or should I add another layer on top of this?
  • UffUff Posts: 3,199
    Is it an optical illusion, the pavement seems to be higher than where you have dug out @loisamarshall? 
    SW SCOTLAND but born in Derbyshire
  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    I'd add as much as you can, and then see how well everything is draining. That sticky wet clay is difficult until it's improved.
    A mature hedge will soak up a lot of moisture, but the initial phase of getting it established is the important bit. 
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
  • loisamarshallloisamarshall Posts: 8
    @Uff not an optical illusion! It’s a very steep street…

  • Chris-P-BaconChris-P-Bacon Posts: 943
    I don't want sound like Mr Obvious but check your downspout for leaks.
    Lonicera nitida would do ok in that location. 
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