Clay Soil Treatment

There are a number of measures that improve clay soil.

Soil that contains a lot of clay is not ideal when it comes to gardening. If you have clay soil in your garden, you can improve it in a variety of ways.

Tilling

According to the University of California, tilling should be the first step to improving clay soil. Till the soil when moist using a spading fork. Turn over all the soil and break up large clods. Allow the soil to dry and crumble in the sun, then moisten it slightly and rake over it.

Soil Amendments

Tilling the soil improves its texture for oxygenation, water permeation and plant growth. Adding organic material to the soil improves the texture further wile also making the soil more fertile. Manure, plant matter and other compost should be worked into the soil. More slowly decomposing materials, such as bark chips and sawdust, help in time but do not an immediate impact.

pH Levels

Clay soil can be anywhere from strongly acidic to highly alkaline. A soil test determines the pH of your soil and helps you decide if you need to alter it. Liming is the most common way to raise pH. Lower pH by incorporating nitrogen fertilizer or elemental sulfur.

References

• University of California: Clay Garden Soils Require Special Care
• North Carolina State University: Amending Clay Soils
• Auburn University: Growing Ornamentals in the Clay Soils of the Black Belt