Page 1: Introduction to Building Healthy Soil
Page 2: Adding Organic Matter
Page 3: Improving the Soil

Adding Organic Matter
Add Organic Matter
To improve the soil structure, or tilth, add organic matter in the form of compost, cover crops, or yard waste. Yard waste such as shredded leaves, crop residues, straw, and similar materials should be tilled into the soil in the fall to allow decomposition through the fall and winter. At the same time, grass clippings, manure, or fertilizer should be incorporated to provide the extra nitrogen required to help break down the dry organic materials. This material can be composted and added to the garden in the spring if your prefer.

Grow Cover Crops and Green Manures
A cover crop, such as rye grass, is a temporary planting, usually done in the fall, that protects the soil from wind and water erosion and adds organic matter. Crops grown for soil improvement are called green manure crops and are left in place for six months to a year. Legumes are especially efficient because they "fix" nitrogen from the air into the soil. After the summer garden crops have been harvested, and stalks and vines removed, lightly till the garden to prepare a seed bed, incorporating lime and fertilizer, if necessary. Broadcast the cover crop seed, rake lightly to cover it, and then irrigate. Where you have fall crops growing, you can sow cover crop seed between rows a month or less before expected harvest, but usually not later than early November.

If a hardy species survives the winter, it will resume growth as the weather begins to warm, but be careful not to let the crop go to seed. Cover crops and green manures are usually tilled under in the spring before planting. If the crop is tall or thick, cut it with a lawn mower prior to tilling - especially legumes as they may clog machinery. For large gardens, a rototiller is the most practical way to incorporate any type of crop. The crop should be turned under two to three weeks before planting new seed.

Add Nutrients
If your sod test recommends additional nutrients, add them just before planting your main crops. By regularly adding organic matter to the soil, there is less need for chemical fertilizers, since organic matter promotes a gradual release of plant nutrients. Organic matter alone, however, will not provide sufficient nutrients for plants. Animal manures or other fertilizers should also be incorporated into garden soil.

Next Page: Improving Garden Soil

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