Improve Soil Structure by Making Amendments

It’s winter time in my part of the world. I’m doing some research on how to improve soil structure by making amendments to it. My soil is (unfortunately) mostly clay.  Which means it needs some help getting air to it and to release some of the water it wants to retain.

Basically, a soil amendment is any material added to a soil to improve its physical properties and the way it holds (or releases) water. Topsoil is usually used with another amendment, it replaces existing soil. You might need to change things like:

• -water retention
• -permeability – the ability of water to flow through a soil
• -how water drains – fast or slow
• -aeration – the amount of air space
• -overall soil structure

The goal is to provide a better environment for the roots of the plants. After all, you are putting all your efforts into the growing process. Taking the time now, in the off season, to improve soil structure will benefit your garden during the growing season.

According to the Colorado State University Extension Office  “Amending a soil is not the same thing as mulching, although many mulches also are used as amendments. A mulch is left on the soil surface. Its purpose is to reduce evaporation and runoff, inhibit weed growth, and create an attractive appearance. Mulches also moderate soil temperature. Organic mulches may be incorporated into the soil as amendments after they have decomposed to the point that they no longer serve their purpose.”

First determine your soil structure

This simple test, the mason jar soil test, is the perfect way to begin understanding your soil. It couldn’t be simpler. Just take a sampling of your soil from several different areas of the garden. Mix it together and fill half of a canning jar. Next, add an equal amount of tap water, cap and shake until the soil is suspended in the water. Then let is sit, undisturbed for a few hours. Your soil sample will separate into layers.

Which Amendments should you make?

Now that you know what kind of soil you have you can use these recommendations.

Amendments for Clay Soil http://www.wikihow.com/Amend-Clay-Soil

Lime: raises the pH of acid soil and helps loosen clay soil.
Bark, ground: made from various tree barks. Improves soil structure.
Sand, course: improves drainage in clay soil.
Compost: excellent conditioner.
Leaf mold: decomposed leaves that add nutrients and structure to soil.
Peat Moss: Conditioner that adds aeration to the soil.

Amendments for Sandy Soil http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/amending-sandy-soil.htm

Peat moss: conditioner that helps soil retain water.
Bark, ground: made from various tree barks. Improves soil structure.
Compost: excellent conditioner.
Leaf mold: decomposed leaves that add nutrients and structure to soil.
Clay rich soil: improves the water holding properties

Amendments for Silty Soil http://agverra.com/blog/silty-soil/

Compost: excellent conditioner.
Manure: best if composted, it’s a good conditioner.
Sand, course: improves drainage
Straw: composted

Having a great garden is all about planning – and soil. No matter what kind of soil structure you currently have, by making some amendments this winter you can improve your soil structure and have a great gardening season.

Head on over to our Sow What! board on Pinterest and see what other gardening ideas we’ve found.

Shared with: Frugal Days, Sustainable Ways –