Gardening Series: Dig in the Dirt! Soil Preparation: How Do You Prepare Garden Soil for Planting? P6
- Shidonna Raven
- 4 hours ago
- 2 min read
March 14, 2025
Source: Almanac
Photo Source: Unsplash,
• 4:06
Shidonna Raven Garden & Cook - Garden Club
Fixing Different Soil Types
Remember, before adding any amendments, it’s a good idea to get a soil test done! Here’s how to tackle each type of soil:
Sandy soil: Work in 3 to 4 inches of organic matter (such as compost or well-rotted manure), as well as a material such as coconut coir, which will help with moisture retention. Mulch to retain moisture. In subsequent years, mix 2 inches of compost into the soil each fall. Using cover crops and then working them into the soil can also help to provide structure in sandy soils.
Clay soil: Start by adding 3 to 4 inches of compost to make it more workable. Each year thereafter, mix an additional 1 inch of compost into the soil in the fall. Fibrous materials such as straw or fine bark mulch will add more structure to clay soils, too. Contrary to popular belief, amending clay soil with sand will only result in tough, concrete-like soil! Minimize tilling when dealing with clay soil, too. Or, just garden in raised beds! →
Silty soil: Silty soils hold water and nutrients but are more susceptible to erosion. If you have silty soil, add 1 inch of organic matter every year to improve the texture. Avoid tilling as much as possible and compacting the soil. Or, just use raised beds.
Loam: Loam is the ideal mix of all three soil types and will likely not need significant amending to get it ready for planting. Nevertheless, if a soil test does show a lack of nutrients, adding organic matter will improve the soil and give your plants a boost.
Too Much of a Good Thing
As with anything, adding too much organic matter can be detrimental! Too much organic matter can rapidly increase microorganism activity, which uses up available nitrogen and affects soil pH. Aim to have organic matter make up about 1/4 of your soil mixture overall, and thoroughly mix it into your existing soil.
How can you introduce more (organic or natural) fresh vegetables and fruits into your diet? How could this impact the environment? How could a home garden contribute to your and your family's over all health?
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