How to Cultivate Clay Soil

Clay soils are difficult to cultivate in their natural state, as clay consists of small particles that bond when wet. Clay soil has the potential of being one of the most fertile soils, but it also is known to choke out the air that plant roots need in order to grow. Wet or dry, it is nearly impervious to water and becomes waterlogged or flooded in wet weather. Cultivation of clay soil is difficult; it should only be cultivated when it is moist but not wet.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Tiller
• Shovel
• Gloves
• Rake
• Compost
• Water

1. Till the yard to the precise depth you want to plant your vegetation. Make sure you break up the hardened areas of the soil until it looks like fresh gritty dirt, crumbling to the touch.

2. Rake over the soil to break up any clumps or smaller-sized pieces of soil. Make sure you to wear your gloves. Smooth out the area where you will plant.

3. Place the plants into the soil as you wish them to appear. Spread the fertilizer to the desired thickness over the planted area. A slow-release fertilizer will feed the soil over time, assisting in growth. Water the soil area lightly; be careful not to drown the plants. Moist clay soil works best when not fully saturated. Add a layer of compost to the surface to assist in adding nutrients to the soil.

References

• Lawn Care Simplified
• Cultivating Life