[mrs mud]

Hello

We are planning to have veg beds in place of where we currently have a lawn.   I thought maybe four/five seperate beds with paths in-between and the beds will be raised a little to give some depth as we are very rocky underneath. 

I had just assumed we would cut off the turf and dig over the area, however a neighbour suggested we weed-kill the lawn first.  I confess I had not given it too much thought but I am not sure I like the idea of weed killer when I plan to grow and eat the fruit and veg.  We don't want to keep any lawn but there are plants around the edge which I want to keep for the time being.  I've attached a pic.

Just wondered what thoughts or advice on this

[snowdrops]

As it is lawn there will be no need to use weedkiller. Mark out the area to dig up & then begin to cut it with your spade & dig it up in to manageable pieces. Depending how deep your top soil is you can dig down & then bury the grass you have removed as long as you place it grass side down. Nothing to get rid of & depending how high you beds are going to be raised no soil to bring in. You could also add manure & or compost under the soil which will improve your soil. Just don't use manure where you are going to grow carrots & parsnips otherwise you will end up with forked roots.

[Spana]

Have a look at Ma Lowes Diary in the diary section, shes on page 3 She dug up her  lawn and made veg beds and i dont think she used weed killer first.  It turned out really well, have a look

[Chrysalis]

Just a thought: If you're planning a number of beds, make sure the paths are two mowing widths so it's easy to maintain.

Can't beat veg beds over lawn... we reduce ours every year!

welcome, by the way.

[mrs mud]

Great advice, thanks everyone 

Yep the diary pics are amazing, I am keener than ever now 

[Totty]

I did a similar thing last year. Cut the turf off with a spade nice and neatly and stack it somewhere for a year. You will then have lovely loam to add to your beds next year. I used 8 inch deep timbers and have 4 at 8ftx8ft and one of 22ftx6ft. I laid weed supressing membrane between the beds and made the paths from bark/hedgetrimmings and they look lovelly. No need to walk on the beds, just add as much compost, manure, leaf mould as possible and all will be well! Welcome