Layered Garden on Concrete

by Kelly
(Ontario, Canada)

Hi There, I'd like to make a Lasagna Garden on my balcony. If I follow the tutorial on your page, can I do this with the bottom of it being concrete instead of grass?

My plan is to build the frame, layer with cardboard and newspaper and so on, but the base won't be grass & soil.

Thanks for your help,
Kelly Connor

Comments for Layered Garden on Concrete

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May 15, 2012
Lasagne No-Dig over Concrete NEW
by: Kiwi George

Hi Kelly. Yep, no problems as my first one was over a clay/rotten rock base and after about 8 years I have about 50cm of black top soil thanks to the worms doing the digging for me as due to a "dicky ticker" I cannot dig. The usual "rules" for a No-Dig bed apply, drainage of twigs etc then the lasagne buildup. Be sure to keep the whole bed moist as it will not rot down if the straw/hay what ever you use stays dry. I have found it best to cover the bed to keep any serious rain from drowning it as this will make the bed cold and slow the decomposing process. As I have a permaculture style garden I have many native birds and blackbirds who love to dig in the straw etc I so cover my beds 7 No-Dig beds with coarse mesh which also keeps away the local cats who find my friable soil an ideal "dirt box".
Happy No-Digging
Kiwi George

May 15, 2012
Thank you! NEW
by: Kelly

Hi Kiwi George!

Thx so much for the excellent info! I can't wait to get started this weekend! I'll keep you updated.

Jun 03, 2012
Lasagna garden on balcony NEW
by: Veshengro

May I suggest that, if you are saying balcony, to check the carrying capacity of the said building outcrop. You don't want to overload the balcony and have it sailing toward the ground one day.

Jun 08, 2012
And runoff? NEW
by: MGSteve

In addition to checking the load capacity, you'll want to make sure that you have the drainage taken care of. The last thing you'll want is to have the landlord make you get rid of it because the downstairs neighbors are fed up with being dripped on.

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