raised bed strategy

Using the basic method for building hugelkultur beds (steps described below) I am implementing a similar strategy to create raised beds near the primary structure (house) of my design site.  This will use local (on-site) wood scraps and materials to create raised beds that will help to retain moisture during drought summers and prevent gardens from flooding during rainy seasons.  Hugelkultur beds also slightly extend the growing season due to retained warmth in the soil from decomposting organic materials later in the season.  We are seeding the beds with worms from on site vermiculture bins so the decomposting organic wood materials and the worms (red wigglers: Eisenia fetida) can help improve soil fertility and turn the local clay-heavy soil into soil that will be more appropriate for cover crops, greens, and herbs.  I am implementing this strategy to improve both moisture control and fertility.  The buried logs and wood materials will help absorb water and release the water more slowly, reducing standing water in wet seasons and keeping the soils moist during drier seasons.  According to the soil survey of this county in east TN, the soils in this region can be low in natural fertility and organic content so the hugelkultur method may be of benefit.  The first hugelkultur is in place and I am researching a good crop to grow as a cover crop to help fix nitrogen (decomposting wood materials requires a good deal of nitrogen...we used very old wood chunks that were nearly falling apart, so they will not require as much nitrogen as newer wood but this is still an important factor to take into consideration).  Pictures and designs to follow as we proceed.

How to Build a Hugelkultur Bed

1. Gather woody waste materials such as dead logs, extra firewood, pruned or clipped branches, and more. The wood can be either rotting or fresh, although already rotting wood decomposes fastest.
2. Lay the wood in a mound about 1-2 feet high and stomp on it a bit to break it up. You can dig a trench to lay the wood in, if you wish.
3. Cover the wood with other compost materials such as autumn leaves, grass clippings, garden wastes, and manure. (This stage is optional if you aren't planning to plant the bed immediately.)
4. Cover the wood and compost with a few inches of dirt and/or prepared compost.

Steps found at: http://kerryg.hubpages.com/hub/Hugelkultur-Using-Woody-Waste-in-Composting