Raised Bed?

[big rockpile]

Is it better to just cut plants off and leave the roots?

big rockpile

 

[Chuck]

If the plants were healthy and pest free during the season then yes, it is IMO a good idea with the exception of tomatoes as I always pull them. By leaving the roots in the soil it helps aeroate and fertilize the soil for the benefit of the soil microbes.

 

[Meadowlark]

Is it better to just cut plants off and leave the roots?

Depends on what comes next for that soil.

If the plan is to let it go fallow until spring, then yes, I would leave the roots.

If the plan is to follow up with a cover crop, then better to shallow till the roots to create a superior seed bed for the cover crop. There are exceptions...like rye grass is easily overseeded but others get better germination with a seed bed.

If the plan is to plant winter veggies, again I would till those roots into the soil first before planting winter veggies.

You seem to like no till and Ruth Stout and in that approach you would not till or disturb the soil just mulch it, as I understand.

 

[big rockpile]

Well there is no longer Tilling these Beds are about 3 foot high.

They are starting to settle so I know I’m going to have to put more soil in.

Part of it I’m going to put Garlic in.

Going to make some self watering.

big rockpile