How Do You Prepare Soil For Fall Planting?
Cooler temperatures are just one of the things that will impact how a flower or vegetable garden grows. But in order for plants to grow successfully in the cooler months, they must first be planted in good soil. Have a soil test taken before you start digging. A soil test will tell you the good and the bad about your current soil conditions, such as its pH. Knowing the pH of your soil is important, as it will tell what nutrients may need to be added for your geographic location. Most county extension services will process a soil sample in about 1 to 2 weeks for a small fee. Because growing conditions change, it’s best to have a test done every couple of years. Take a sample at the surface and at a 2- to 3-inch depth in several locations in the planting area. If soil sticks to a shovel, or if it appears shiny and smooth, it is too wet. It’s important to only work with dry soil, because working in excessively wet soil can destroy its structure. Time your planing right. Fall is the most d
