Building a keyhole garden is an innovative way to increase the productivity and sustainability of your garden. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to build one:

1. Mark the garden footprint:

  • Starting point:  Use a string attached to a central post to draw a circle with a radius of 90 to 120 cm to define the garden area.

2. Create the compost basket:

  • Central component:  Build a wire mesh compost basket approximately 1.20 meters high and 4.5 meters wide in the center of the circle to provide nutrient-rich compost.

3. Build the retaining wall:

  • Define boundaries:  Use materials such as bricks, stones or wood to build a 1 meter high retaining wall around the marked circle to ensure easy access for efficient gardening.

4. Add the keyhole notch:

  • Access point:  Extend part of the wall towards the central compost bin, creating a “keyhole” notch that allows easy access to the garden.

5. Lay the foundation and layers:

  • Layered approach:  Start with a drainage layer of gravel, followed by alternating layers of organic matter (brown materials like straw or newspaper and green materials like grass clippings or kitchen scraps). Top it all off with high-quality garden soil.

6. Plant your garden:

  • Diverse planting:  Use the space to plant seeds or starter plants and provide room for a variety of vegetables, herbs and flowers.

7. Maintain the compost:

  • Continuous feeding:  Add organic waste to the compost bin regularly and make sure it stays moist. This ongoing process enriches the soil and supports plant growth.

8. Consider routes and accessibility:

  • Easy access:  Plan paths around and into your garden to allow for convenient maintenance and access.

9. Adaptation and crop rotation:

  • Adapt to conditions:  Adapt the garden to the local climate and your personal preferences. Rotate crops regularly to maintain soil health and ward off pests.

Benefits of Keyhole Gardens

  • Sustainable living:  The efficient use of space and resources creates a thriving ecosystem.
  • Adaptability:  Valuable in challenging environments with water scarcity or poor soil quality.
  • Home-grown produce:  Enjoy the benefits of fresh produce and contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

By creating a keyhole garden, you will contribute to a greener environment and enjoy the benefits of home-grown produce while practicing sustainable gardening practices.

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