Deciding which soil amendments are right for your garden can seem daunting because soil is ever-changing.
Soil amendments can be as simple as getting the right soil nutrients to improve the soil.
Why you should amend your soil
The need to amend your garden soil arises from having poor, compacted, or nutrient-deficient soil, all of which are detrimental to the healthy growth of plants. Improving your garden’s soil is essential for achieving a bountiful and thriving garden.
The condition of your soil must be suitable to support the growth of plants. There are several methods you can use to enhance the soil and promote the healthy growth of your crops.
Soil amendments you can try out
Using Compost
One of the simplest ways to improve the soil is by composting garden and organic kitchen waste. Compost decomposes the remains of plant material, think as leaves, grass clippings, bark, and kitchen scraps. It is one of the few soil amendments that’s easy to make yourself, as you can DIY it anytime in your home.
The right organic compost helps increase the pore space in the soil for better air circulation to the plant’s roots and provides nutrients for healthy plant growth. So, to boost the organic matter in your soil, start composting your garden waste.
Adding manure
Manure can come from various animals that you might already have in your yard, such as cows, pigs, and chickens. When using manure, it’s important to exercise caution because fresh manure can burn or even kill your plants.
To avoid this, it’s best to compost the manure first, allowing it to cool down and mature before application. Once it has matured, manure becomes an excellent soil amendment. Well-rotted manure increases soil fertility and boosts organic matter levels in the soil.
Opting for mulch
Use mulch for moisture retention needed by the soil. Mulching is a simple but effective way of amending the soil. While it doesn’t directly alter soil composition, it helps retain moisture, suppresses weeds, and, as time goes breaks down to add organic matter. This then creates a healthier soil environment to grow your plants.
Although soil amendment may take time, it is necessary for your garden’s benefit.
Compiled by: Chumasande Matiwane
First published on Garden and Home
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