How to deal with Compacted Soil in Planted Borders

Hello all

I hope you are well.

Stupid Question incoming

I have been unable to get much done in the Garden since August 2023 and am just now trying to start again.

One thing that I have noticed is that the Soil in the Borders is Compacted.

What is the best way to deal with Compacted Soil in the Borders as I am unable to Dig, or Fork, as the Roots of the Plants extend a fair distance and i obviously do not want to damage them?

Thanks in advance

Kevin

 

Mulch, mulch and more mulch.
Let the worms and insects come up and aerate the soil for you.
I have a no dig policy in my garden

 

Hello @flounder

Thanks for the Reply.

I have thought of Mulching in the Past but dismissed the idea as there is a minimal drop between the Soil Level in the Borders and the Edging Setts to allow for the Mulch.

Or, would I still be able to Mulch?

Any advice would be Welcome.

Thanks

Kevin

 

I don't dig around shrubs and trees, it's part of the reason I have them, low maintenance.
Mulching is a good idea, I do quite a lot using my own chippings from the shredder.
Even an inch is worth doing a couple of times a year, it dissappears over time.
Of course a thicker layer is better.