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How soon can I turn over turf treated with Weedol?

Robin NicholsonRobin Nicholson Posts: 14
in Problem solving

Ladies and Gents

I am anxious to get started with planting on the part of my garden (new build) initially laid with turf.

I have given a good correct dose of weedol and as far as I can work out can turn it over immediately?

I then intend removing the turf clods where planting is to be done and use a John Innes no 2 or 3 in the appropriately sized 'pits' so that the plants have a good base to settle into. For example, for fence climbing Clematis the pit will be 18 x 18 x 18, with a watering tube

Elsewhere, with the turned over weedol treated turf, I intend covering with 2-3 inches of soil conditioner which will, in time, assist breakdown of the turf clods

Is this a fair approach?

Last edited: 10 May 2017 09:34:01

Posts

  • hogweedhogweed Posts: 4,053

    I would just have lifted the grass rather than put weedkiller down. However. Rather than fill the pit with new soil it is better if you dig the compost in first and that is better for the plant. Then dig a normal size hole and plant. .

    'Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement' - Helen Keller
  • ObelixxObelixx Posts: 30,088

    It should be indicated on the packet.   I'm afraid there are nos hort cuts to good soil preparation other than piling on a generous layer for compost and/or manure in autumn and leaving it over winter for the worms and other organisms to work in.

    If you just make pits without working some of the compost into the surrounding soil you will end up with sumps where water collects and rots your plant roots.   You really need to fork it all over to loosen up the soil and then I would top dress with a generous layer of cheap multi-purpose compost and, if you can, some well rotted manure and fork it all over again.

    You can then add soil conditioner to the soil you use to back fill your planting holes.  You can also use some microrhizal fungae sprinkled on plant roots to help them establish well.   Make sure your clematis is planted several inches lower than it was in the pot and that it gets a good soaking before and after planting.   Feed every spring with a slow release clematis food and give occasional drinks of liquid tomato food to promote good flowering.

    Last edited: 10 May 2017 12:20:05

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  • Robin NicholsonRobin Nicholson Posts: 14

    Thanks for the admirable replies

    I have commenced turning the turf over in 9 x 9 inch lumps. Underneath I noted the soil was not too compact and, good news, the odd worm or two

    I think use my excellent lawn edging half moon slicer to cut each into 9 before, after which I have applied the soil conditioner once I have done a square metre

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