SOIL PREPARATION IN THREE PHASES
Even though a good organic garden can be maintained throughout the year, the best time for soil preparation is autumn through to winter. Soil structure will directly affect the quality of the produce and a well-worked soil with the right bottom fertilizer will help cultivate good harvests every year. The soil must be able to retain moisture without any harmful stagnation and it must be soft so that roots can easily penetrate it. The soil should be turned and worked through during this time to promote oxygenation and soil enrichment by organic substances, which will activate by the arrival of spring. The improvement of the physical structure of the soil should be apparent and the result should be a soft fertile substrate, ready to welcome fruit, vegetable and herb plants.
There are three very important phases to consider and these will help prepare the soil for an excellent harvest
Phase One: Soil Cleansing
When cultivating an organic garden for the first time, the soil will most probably contain unwanted spontaneous plant life. This needs to be eradicated to make room for crops. Using a fork and rake to turn the soil will cleanse and filter it and should expose any excess plant life. All good gardeners seek to remove unwanted plant life from the root, to ensure that other parts of these plants that may contain seeds are also removed. Doing this thoroughly should prevent re-growth, which could spoil the crop. The removal of the top layer of soil will also help eliminate unwanted plant life residues.
Phase Two: Manual Tillage
Planning your garden is a fundamental part of this phase and this will determine not only the method of manual tillage but also the type and amount of natural fertilizer to use. This phase should take place at least a day after phase one, as this will allow the soil to settle. The soil should then be worked further to make it as durable and easily permeable to water as possible. A good spade should be used for this phase and the correct time to dig or till is when the soil is tempered. Tillage should not take place during or after rain as the soil will be saturated with water becoming too heavy to work properly. Equally, digging on hot sunny days should also be avoided as excessive aridity makes the ground very hard and unworkable. The removal of stones, which can hinder the roots of crops, should also take place during this phase. After the soil has been thoroughly worked and turned, It is good practice to add a bottom fertilizer and a new topsoil, but do not forget that this is dependent on your choice of crop.
Phase Three: Hoeing
The process of hoeing must begin as soon as the first two phases are complete. Planning with crops in mind is essential at this stage and the preparation for hoeing of a seedbed must be thorough.
OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE SOWING
Soil preparation is a crucial step in establishing a successful green organic garden. The health and fertility of the soil directly impact the growth and yield of plants, making it essential to prioritise proper soil management practices. By following organic methods and techniques, gardeners can create a sustainable and environmentally friendly space that promotes biodiversity without the use of synthetic chemicals and by following organic methods and techniques, gardeners can build healthy soil that supports plant growth, whilst minimising environmental impact. Through practices such as soil testing, organic matter management, mulching, crop rotation, and companion planting, gardeners can cultivate a thriving garden ecosystem that benefits both plants and the planet and by prioritising soil health and sustainability, organic gardeners can enjoy the rewards of a bountiful harvest while contributing to a healthier and more resilient natural environment.
The key steps in soil preparation
Soil Testing: It is imperative that a soil test is conducted to determine the current pH level, nutrient content, and composition of the soil. This information will guide gardeners in making informed decisions about which amendments are needed to improve soil quality.
Soil Aeration: Compacted soil can restrict root growth and water infiltration, leading to poor plant health. Aerating the soil by tilling or using a garden fork helps loosen compacted soil, improve drainage, and promote air circulation for the roots.
Organic Matter: Compost, manure, and mulch, are essential for enriching the soil with nutrients and improving its structure. Adding organic matter helps increase soil fertility, retain moisture, and support beneficial microbial activity.
Mulching: Organic materials like straw, leaves, or grass clippings help conserve moisture, suppress weeds, regulate soil temperature, and enhance soil biodiversity. Mulch also breaks down over time, adding organic matter to the soil and improving its overall health.
