Double Digging: Why Do It?

The article reports on the method of soil preparation called double-digging which is a key factor in cultivation. Double-digging is said to improve soil aeration and root penetration for long-term plantings, such as vegetables, cane fruits, and shrubs. However, it is pointed out that deep digging disrupts soil life and earthworm and beetle habitats. The alternatives to the time-consuming work like building raised beds with good compost, single-digging, and repeated mulching, are presented, especially in cases where subsoil is made of heavy clay or rock.