Clay Soil - Knowledgebase Question

Greendale, Wi
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Question by micomputer
February 22, 2009
My husband said that he is going to put sand into our garden to


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Answer from NGA
February 22, 2009
Sand won't loosen clay soil quite as well as compost, aged manure or shredded mulch. I'd vote for incorporating organic mulch rather than sand. If you have a large garden area you can purchase bulk material and have it delivered. If you have small garden areas you can purchase in bags. Spread 4-5 inches of organic matter over the entire bed and then dig it in to a depth of 10-12 inches. Plant as usual and then place 2-3 inches of organic matter around the plants and over the bare soil. This mulch will help suppress weeds and slow evaporation. At the end of the season dig the mulch into the soil and add fresh mulch. After a few years of this practice you will have wonderfully loamy soil instead of clay. Best wishes with your garden!

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