If given the choice would you prefer a clay soil or a sandy soil on which to create your garden?  On the face of it, the latter would seem the obvious choice.  Sandy soils warm up quickly in spring, are easy to cultivate and drain freely.  However, with regular additions of organic matter and careful cultivation at the right time, a clay soil will ultimately prove to be the more fertile medium supporting a wide range of plant life.

Converting compacted clay to a more friable, fertile soil will be neither quick nor easy.  Success lies in correct and thorough preparation by:

	removing or systematically killing off all perennial weeds and grasses
	hand digging, using a garden fork to a depth of 8 to 10 inches
	breaking up the subsoil to improve drainage and root penetration
	incorporating copious amounts of organic matter on a regular basis

With regards to soil amendments, composted bark or forest mulch are excellent for opening up clay soils.  Increase fertility and encourage earthworm activity by adding manures or homemade compost.  Adding gypsum or lime are “band-aid” improvements and can create problems in your clay is already alkaline.  (The pH of your soil can easily be tested with a soil test kit.)  Lime will neutralize acidic clay, but should be used sparingly with a view to the requirements of the plants you wish to grow.

Finally keeping clay soil open and free-draining requires diligent adherence to a few “no-break” rules of cultivation.

	Never cultivate a clay soil when it is saturated.  If it sticks to your boots or garden fork, wait until it dries out.  Late spring or mid-autumn are ideal times.
	Never walk on wet clay. If you must step on it, use a board or stepping-stones to distribute your weight.
	Each time you plant, add organic matter to the planting hole.  Each autumn spread a layer of organic material on the soil surface 2-3 inches thick, letting the earthworms and weather incorporate it for you.
	Keep garden tools clean and oiled.  A garden fork is much easier to use in clay than a spade.

For any questions you have on this article, or any topic of concern, email us - or better yet, come by and talk to one of our professional staff members.  Remember, Phelan Gardens is open year-round!    

For additional information, check the following links:

• Composting Yard Waste
• Choosing a Soil Amendment
• Mulches for Home Grounds
• Organic soil amendments
• Soil preparation