Walking a Quiet Path in Southampton 2008: How to Build a Labyrinth
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Information designed by Mark Rendell, the growing company 023 8023 3768, mark@thegrowingcompany.co.uk © 2008
(These instructions accompany a Design Drawing that demonstrates how to mark out the shape on the ground)
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1. This is a seven circuit Cretan labyrinth. Allowing for a width of 1.5m between edges, this labyrinth would take about 10 minutes to walk (in and out). A Design Drawing describes how to create this shape on the ground. |
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2. Mark out the labyrinth shape with pegs and string and use a non-permanent method to mark out the lines - sand (shown) or line marking spray are best. |
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3. Using a half moon border edging spade, or ordinary spade (shown), cut a slit along the marked line. If the soil is really dry, water the area first to make it easier to dig. |
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4. Wiggle the spade to create a ‘V’ shaped slit. Make sure this slit is a good depth and has a wide opening. To aid drainage and root growth, prick the bottom of the V with a fork. |
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5. Add organic material (e.g. compost mixed with water retaining gel) generously to the gap created. Firm compost down to create a small raised embankment. |
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6. Sow seeds, plant bulbs or plant plug plants along this central soil strip and firm in. You can also mix seed into the compost mixture (step 5), if you prefer. |
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7. Water the compost strip area well. You should start to see the labyrinth shape appear after 10 – 14 days. Continue to water the strip during dry periods. |
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8. Now, tell everyone about it! You could also activate your labyrinth with a small ritual / ceremony, something appropriate to your group. Well done and enjoy! |
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