Kay Easton wrote in message ...
[...]
Clay is the foundation for a good fertile soil if you add humus. I
suggest starting a compost heap, and using it to mulch any area where
you intend to plant.
"Sue da Nimm" . wrote in message ...
[...]

Do It Yourself and dream of the feeling of achievement when it's done. The
pleasure you'll get every single day when you look out on a garden you've
made yourself is priceless.

If you buy top-soil. get screened horticultural soil - you can probably
specify added compost from a good supplier. If you can get hold of a trailer
there is often free topsoil advertised in local papers - although you may
well have to dig it out yourself and the quality may be indifferent.

Five uses for rubble:
1. Create different levels in the garden to add structure.
2. If you want to grow plants that need good drainage, make raised beds with
a layer of rubble topped by mixed grit & soil (or even
topsoil/compost/manure
3. Build a rockery by building a heap of rubble, dress with a few decorative
rocks, add grit and soil and lots of spreading alpines.
4. Make a patio using the rubble topped by sharp sand underneath the slabs.
5. Use to make a concrete slab and install a
summerhouse/shed/greenhouse/den.

Sound. But I wouldn't spend scarce money on topsoil, certainly not if
it has to be borrowed: apart from the shocking cost, as Sue implies
what you get is often poor stuff. Soil is rarely as bad as it seems at
first, as it's easy to look at the post-builders desert and see only
the mess. You can gradually build up your soil structure over the
years, but right now it might make you happier to spend your budget on
plants, and maybe a bench and a table: you'll have earned that
sit-down!

Take long inquisitive looks at what's growing in other gardens nearby,
and see what plants you like. You'll soon become an expert on your own
patch, and confident enough to be original.

Another thing: don't chuck away or bury the bricks, not even
half-ones. As they surface, stack them neatly somewhere, and you'll be
able to use them later for edging, or stepping-stones, or a nice
little paved area if there are enough. Even rather ugly ones weather
down well, and look very good.

There are ways of dealing with long narrow gardens: browse at the
bookshops and the library before buying!

Mike.