Charles Dowding: His Standout Career Moments And Advice For Aspiring Gardeners
Contributions From CHARLES DOWDING
Charles Dowding is a Horticulturist best known for his pioneering work on the concept of 'no-dig gardening'. He is the author of several books on the subject, including his most recent 2022 publication ‘No Dig’, and runs several courses and lectures too. He has over 600,000 subscribers on YouTube, where he shares useful videos on organic gardening.
Charles Dowding is best known for being one of the leading pioneers of no-dig gardening, which he has been practising since the early 1980s.
He has written several best-selling books on organic gardening and the no-dig method, having spent years tending to a market garden, a small farm in France and more recently, on farmland in Somerset.
I spoke with Charles very briefly to explore his early life and plans for the future.
Please note that the images in the article were provided with permission from Charles Dowding.
How Did You First Get Into Gardening? What Does It Mean To You?
“I got into gardening through a desire to eat tasty, fresh vegetables,” he explains.
“It shapes everything in my life and teaches me all the time.”
When Did You First Start To Practice No Dig Gardening?
“In 1982, as I was inspired by weeds and how they grow,” says Charles.
“I was seeing too many on organic holdings and saw the potential of mulching from this.”
What Are The Benefits Of No Dig?
“Less time and effort is required in the garden and the soil improves all the time. It also leads to better moisture retention and drainage, fewer weeds and healthier plants.”
What Are Some Of The Best Vegetables For Growing At This Time Of Year?
“There are too many to list,” says Charles.
“I love how growing your own leads to a full appreciation of the changing seasons and different flavours.”
Do You Have Any Standout Career Moments?
“Appearing on Gardeners World with Geoff Hamilton in March 1989 was amazing.
My first book appearing March 2007 was a huge highlight, too.
The first of my videos to reach a very large audience, ‘Fourth Summer at Homeacres’, appeared in August 2016. It has over 5 million views to this day.
“Finally, I will always be proud of the worldwide enthusiasm for my No Dig book.”
What’s Next For You?
“I have a new website coming in either August or September 2023,” he shares.
“It will feature an interactive and worldwide no-dig map!
“I’m also going on a trip to Chile and Buenos Aires, where I will be giving many workshops.”
What Advice Would You Give To Aspiring Gardeners?
“Start small and be true to your understanding,” Charles says.
“Follow your gut feelings in the garden.”
