Soil Conditioners: How to use them in Six Easy Steps

Tuesday, September 20, 2011 Goto comments Leave a comment Blog

Soil conditioners are additives you put in your soil to improve the quality of your soil.  Certain plants/vegetation thrives better in their “perfect soil”.  There is a wide variety of soil conditioners or amendments, these terms are often interchangeable, however, in some cases a soil conditioner, may refer to a product used for the sole purpose of loosening, or otherwise improving the soil structure in preparation for planting.  A soil amendment most often contains a blend of organic or synthetic fertilizers to encourage and help establish plant growth.  Even mulch is a soil conditioner since it actively improves the quality of your soil.  It is recommended that you add soil conditioners before you plant and often afterwards if using organic soil conditioners.

Six Easy steps for Soil Conditioning:

Step One: Test your soil to find out what’s missing and what type of soil conditioner you may need.  Most universities and colleges have a horticulture department with soil testing facilities. For instance, if your soil has too much clay, sand or is too acidic you will need a soil conditioner.

Step Two: Measure your yard and/or garden to figure out how much soil conditioner you will need.

Step Three: Remove any large rocks or weeds from your yard and/or garden.

Step Four: Till the soil to a depth of about 4 to 5 inches.

Step Five: Spread the soil conditioner over your yard and/or garden. (Call or Visit your local landscape supply company for the recommended amount of soil conditioner for your space).

Step Six: Work the soil conditioner into the soil for the same 4 to 5 inches.

Happy planting and if you need additional information, please call 703.352.1858 or visit www.lumberjake.com.