THE IMPORTANCE OF SOIL HEALTH

The soil in each garden is unique. It determines how moisture is absorbed and retained, how easily roots can grow, and the supply of vital nutrients present. The health of your plants is directly linked to the health of your soil. Follow these steps to gain an understanding of your soil and any potentially needed remedies.

TEST

Determine your soil’s health with a soil test. A soil test will pinpoint any deficiencies and indicate which nutrients will turn the soil into a good growing medium. You can perform a test yourself using a kit available online or in most garden centers or contact your local cooperative extension office to do it for you. The composition and texture of soil is one of the most important factors to consider when gardening. For example:

• Extremely sandy soil will not hold water and nutrients well.
• Soil that is dense in clay will be difficult to work and your plants will struggle.
• A loamy mix (roughly equal amounts of sand, clay and silt) is the best environment for growing most plants and vegetables. 

REMEDY DEFICIENCIES

Whether you are gardening directly in-ground, in raised beds, or in containers, supplementing your soil is a simple task. Adding organic matter generally makes the soil looser and airier, which enhances its ability to absorb water. As a result, the soil will retain necessary nutrients and moisture between watering. You can supplement the soil by adding three inches of fresh organic mix such as Miracle-Gro Organic™ Raised Bed & Garden Soil or Miracle-Gro Organic™ Outdoor Potting Mix.

FEED

Fertilizers are used to boost the soil’s nutrient content. They are generally available in two forms. Use liquid or water-soluble fertilizers for a quick boost. I like Miracle-Gro Organic™ Plant Food. Granular fertilizers break down more slowly and provide a more gradual, long-lasting release. Try Miracle-Gro Organic All-Purpose Plant Food for a granular choice.

PROTECT

Mulch is a porous layer of material that, when spread a couple inches thick on soil, helps keep weeds at bay, locks in moisture, prevents erosion, and boosts the quality of the soil (without the need for harsh chemicals). It also keeps the soil cool and moist in warm weather, cutting down on the need for watering. Mulch comes in many forms, including shredded bark, pine needles, and gravel-all sold at garden centers. Miracle-Gro Organic™ All Natural Mulch is a good option as it is safe around kids, pets, edible gardening all while helping to naturally prevent weeds. 

Article by Martha Stewart, as part of the Growing with Martha Stewart partnership.