[Anton]

I was discussing with my fellow gardners yesterday what would be good to cover the soil with during the winter. I suppose it is a bit late for green manure! We are thinking some cheap compost delivered from a recycling centre. Would it be a good idea to cover the soil with that during the winter months and then dig it in come spring? I have leeks and parsnips covering quite a lot of the garden and I am leaving in the bean (less) plants Another other suggestions for covering the soil please?

Anton

[allotmentann]

I net down leaves and also cover with any green waste from the plot (except weeds) and bark chips if I can get them, basically anything that will rot down over winter and add some goodness.   

[shoozie]

I grow on clay and top dress empty winter beds with manure - the worms then do the work.  I don't manure next years carrot bed though.   If you can find a local stable or livery they'll have lots of the stuff you can bag up for free.