Glossary of terms used on this site

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hugelkultur

(aka magic mound, lasagna bed), German mound (Hugelkultur or lasgna style) is a method of composting, especially woody garden wastes, such as prunings, hedge clippings, and brassica stalks. In some locales this is called a "Lasagna" bed, so named because of the layers. It involves trenching the depth required to remove the turf (sod), 30-90 centimeters (12-36 in) wide, and in its centre is dug another shallow hole into which the rough material is piled. Removed sod is then stacked face-down onto this pile, then layers of compost, well rotted leaves, manure, etc. are added. The layers gradually decompose slowly releasing nutrients and creating rich humus over time; this is ideal for growing hungry crops such as squash or strawberries.