How Do You Prepare Clay Soil For Planting?
Clay soil retains moisture and is nutrient rich. On the other hand, clay soil drains slowly and compacts, making it hard for plants to thrive. While trees and shrubs thrive in clay soils, annuals, perennials and vegetables have a hard time establishing a root system in these soils. According to the National Gardening Association, adding organic matter “helps improve drainage and lighten heavy soil.” The final result will be a crumbly, brown soil that any plant can thrive in. Till soil with rototiller or rake 6 to 8 inches down. Remove weeds and rocks from soil. Perform a soil test, available at your local gardening center, to determine pH. Take samples from different areas of a dry garden, mix together and test. Till amendments into soil–lime if pH is too low or sulfur if pH is too high–working to a depth of 6 to 8 inches. Till 2 to 3 inches of compost or manure into top of soil. Rake area to level. Water soil well.
