Gardeners can prepare their plots for the fall and winter in many ways. These methods are environmentally friendly and more in line with nature.

Chop & Drop sounds exactly like it does. You cut (or chop) the dead plant material and then drop it on the ground. This method is usually used at the end of the growing season. However, it can be done at any point during the cycle. Some gardeners prefer to remove dead stems in early spring, after allowing them to overwinter for insects. The debris that is left from Cut and Drop will also protect overwintering fauna.

It is a mulching technique originally developed by permaculture. Plants are cut after the growing season and allowed to decompose, acting as natural insulation mulch. You may have already been using this method, but have not realised it.

The Newt, UK, has a sign displaying their maintenance method: Chop and Drop.

The debris protects the surface and enriches the soil. Removing the debris saves time and effort. You can quickly cut back large areas with battery-powered shears or hand pruning tools.

Mulch the ground with chopped-up debris.

Chunk and Drop releases nutrients into the soil during decomposition, suppressing weeds and protecting the soil against erosion. You are also not disturbing the soil or promoting weed growth by bringing buried seeds to the surface.

It is best to cut up large stems into smaller pieces. This will help the decomposition.

The ‘Chop and Drop method is not the most neat way to garden. If you prefer a tidy, immaculate yard, you may be happier with an ordinary mulched lawn. chop and drop is a great way to garden with the latest trend of’rewilding.’ It’s easier and more environmentally friendly!