@Jim Flach I think both work, however in my experience it takes a LOT longer if you only make a layer on top and it seems like the worms just hang out there forever. I broke open the the clay underneath (more like your ditch, but didn't dig deep). But yes, 1/3,1/3,1/3. Long-term the layering makes absolute sense.

@William Pham There's a depleted agricultural field behind my house...if I ever have the chance to acquire this area I would opt for something like you're using William. Additionally, adding dead wood from different sources to increase microbial diversity.

@Dennis Wichter Thanks Dennis! Excited about being enriched by this community and also in sharing my knowledge and experience.

@Julie Vigil Hi Julie, Yes, they're a tree peony (woody shrub) variety as opposed to the herbaceous peony (bush/plant). I have both kinds in my garden, but this one only produces 3-5 large blooms with a wonderful scent per year. So it's really special. It smells divine.❤️

Thanks for the tip Larry, I just ordered it!