Soil is quite possibly the most important element in determining a garden's success. Paying attention to soil quality dramatically improves the odds of producing healthy, verdant plants. The three basic types of soil include clay-based, sand-based and loam-based. Loam-based soils are considered the ideal since they provide a consistency that allows most plants to thrive. Loam consists of 20 percent clay, 40 percent sand and 40 percent silt. If the soil in your garden contains too much sand or clay, however, don't despair: adding amendments will allow you to tailor the soil to successfully meet the needs of your plants. Begin by assessing the existing soil quality: soil with too much clay (figure A) will have a wet, sticky consistency with large clumps. The problem with clay-based soils is their prevention of sufficient air flow, but their high nutrient levels make them an important part of a good soil mix. Sand-based soils, on the other hand, will exhibit a light, granular texture as shown in figure B. The drawback with sandy soil is that while it allows ample drainage and air flow, it's low on nutrients. Loam (figure C), the best type of soil, will exhibit a rich dark color and have a light texture with just a hint of stickiness that allows it to hold nutrients. Even in gardens with loam-based soils, however, mixing in a bit of clay-based and sand-based soil will help ensure a nutrient-rich, evenly aerated consistency (figure D). Once you've established a great base soil in your garden, the next step is to add organic material to increase existing nutrient levels. Here, Schneider opts for mushroom compost, which includes a variety of organic materials and will provide ample nourishment to ensure healthy plants. Note: Whatever amendment you select to nourish your garden -- compost, grass clippings, ground-up leaves, etc. -- be sure to consistently monitor the soil quality and add new amendments as needed. Keep in mind that planting in containers is different than planting in the garden and therefore demands a different type of soil. Since water tables and other conditions in containers are unlike those in the ground, the best option for container plants is a high-quality potting mix (generally not the least expensive). Using this medium for your potted plants (figure E) will ensure that they thrive at the same level as your garden plants. Tool Tip A mini-tiller (figure F) is a great investment for your garden. Unlike their big, scary, full-size counterparts, these tillers are smaller, lighter and easier to use. (Yet they pulverize soil twice as fast as hand tools!) Use your mini-tiller to turn the plot for a new garden, add soil amendments or work in small corners and areas close to existing plants.
RESOURCES :
A Gardener's Guide to Planters, Containers and Raised Beds
Model: 0806942436
Author: Chuck and Barbara Crandall
Sterling Publishing Co. Inc.
Website: www.sterlingpub.com
Let It Rot: The Gardener's Guide to Composting
Model: 1580170234
Author: Stu Campbell
Storey Books / Storey Communications Inc.
Website: www.storey.com
Taylor's 50 Best Perennials for Sun: Easy Plants for More Beautiful Gardens
Model: 0395873304
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