Category: gardening

Clay is one of five types of soil. As a soil, it is heavy and sticky when wet. Under wet condition, clay is relatively hard to work with. Additonally, it does not drain water easily. The following are some techniques to improve clay for use as garden soil. 

1.  Adding lime to improve water drainage. We can improve this aspect of clay by a process known as 'flocculation'. This is done by adding some lime to the clay. This will cause the clay bits to bind together forming larger pieces. Care must be taken to ensure that you are adding the right amount of lime that is suitable for the type of plant that you are intending to grow. This is because lime can alter the PH of the soil.

2. Adding organic matter as nutrients. Adding bulky organic matters improves nutrients. At the same time, this also widens the spaces in the soil which allows the root of the plant to anchor better. This also improve water and air drainage.

3. Soften the soil by digging. If you live in the temperate region, autumn is a time to do some digging. Digging will make the surface more porous for flow and interaction with the elements.

Well these are just some tips for improving clay as a gardening soil. I hope that the article is useful for you. Happy gardening..