How to Rectify Clay Soil
When you turn over a shovelful of dirt in your garden, does it stick together in large, heavy clumps? If so, you probably have clay soil. Clay is made of tiny particles that pack together to create dense, impermeable earth. Not only is this difficult to work with; it also hinders plant growth. Most plants thrive in more porous soil. Porous soil stores water more efficiently. It allows air, water and nutrients to move freely and reach plants. It also enables better root growth and provides optimal conditions for soil organisms. You can improve your gardening success by amending clay soil. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Time your work. It's best not to work with clay soil during wet periods. Wet clay is very difficult to break apart, and walking on it or running equipment over the ground can compact soil further. This will only make the problem worse.
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Till the clay soil. Use a spading fork to turn over clods of clay. Break these into smaller pieces by chopping them up with the fork.
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Allow time for the soil to dry. Exposure to wind and sun for a day or so will help dry the clay and make it easier to work with. Once it is dry, continue to break it apart with your fork or a garden rake.
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Apply organic matter. Organic matter creates a porous texture that allows soil to absorb and store water like a sponge. It also increases the number of soil organisms and promotes the biological activity that releases nutrients for plants. Some organisms also release a sticky substance that bonds soil particles together for an ideal crumblike soil quality. Organic matter can include readily available materials like kitchen compost, yard trimmings, leaf compost and rotted manure.
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Mix the organic material into the soil. Till the material 6 to 8 inches deep with a spading fork or a rototiller.
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Continue amending soil. Rectifying clay soil is an ongoing process. Add organic material annually to maintain an optimal soil structure.
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Tips & Warnings
Many municipalities offer free compost made from leaves and yard trimmings.
Organic mulch used as a top dressing for weed control this year can be worked into the soil next year to serve as a soil amendment.
Don't add sand to clay soil without also adding organic matter. The tiny clay particles can cling to sand creating a concretelike material that may be even more problematic than the clay soil.
If you choose to rototill, don't overdo it. Too much rototilling can compact the soil beneath the tilling depth, making it impenetrable to water.
