How to Make Hard Soil Soft
- 1). Till or plow the soil to a depth of 10 to 12 inches when the soil is dry. Severely compacted soil may require a plow, but most can be tilled with a garden tiller. Till the area in a back and forth motion in one direction until the entire area is tilled. Repeat the procedure by tilling in the opposite direction.
- 2). Allow the soil to dry before walking on it or adding amendments. A sunny afternoon or two typically dries the soil, but the time required depends on the weather and your specific soil's composition and moisture content.
- 3). Break up any clods of soil with a garden hoe or spade. Remove rocks, roots and debris from the area. Rake the area smooth.
- 4). Place a 3- to 4-inch layer of organic matter over the soil. Peat moss works well, but may be cost prohibitive in large areas. Compost or well-rotted manure both add organic matter and are ideal for garden plots.
- 5). Work the organic matter into the soil with a garden tiller. Organic matter increases aeration and promotes good drainage reducing the risk of compaction.
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