Sam Kim

I had read that generally edging (rock borders) on raised garden beds is a bad idea as such rocks can result in unnecessary chemical changes in the soil pH just for the sake of aesthetics.
However, I have also read that rock borders increase heat retention and improve water drainage in beds.

Based on reading about the negative aspects of edging for cosmetics, I decided to opt for simple trenches to demarcate my garden beds. But I'm confused by the possible benefits of rocks for beds also listed above.

What do y'all think? Is there a difference between the two? Are both effects plausible? Does it differ/depend on where the rocks are placed, what rocks are used, etc.?
Any suggestions or thoughts on this matter are greatly appreciated!

Hey y'all. I've been researching hugelkultur for about two months now, along with companion plants and various permaculture related projects.
I am planning on starting a 16' x 6' x 2' hugel bed (partly buried) soon. I am in the process of gathering wood and have collected various woods and cuttings over the past few weeks. (I plan on primarily using oak trunks for the bed/on the deeper levels).

My question is, are pear branches and date palm branches suitable to be placed in my hugel bed? Judging for the past flowers, branches and ornamental buds, I believe the pears are from Bradford pear trees. I've read up on the good/bad wood types thread for hugelkultur and have heard of people using pear trees. I have also heard of Bradford pears spoken poorly spoken as they are referred to as an invasive species, which may make them ill-suited for hugel as they may grow quickly and easily rather than dying.

Beyond the good/bad types of woods for hugel, I could not find any information on using either of these woods for hugel. If anyone could shed some light on the possible use, that'd be great!

Thanks everyone!!!