Getting to know the soil in the garden

The gardens have different types of soils. These soils also have their different types of needs in terms of water and wetness. To know more about the soil in the garden a person does not have to be a scientist of soils. A little knowledge in this line can help you know the needs of your soil better.

It is always suggested that the soil around the plants should be loosened so that the plants can absorb this water easily and get the essential nutrients and other minerals from this water. A layer of mulch should always be used to protect the soil. The mulch can be applied in 1 to 2 inches protective layers and applied on the surface of the soil which is above the root area. This mulch helps to form a protective layer and prevents soil erosion and the loss of the much needed nutrients. This cultivating and the mulching also help prevent the loss of water due to evaporation.

There are various kinds of soils that can be mixed with the soil in the garden to improve the texture of the soil. The clay soil has some organic material like the compost and the peat moss. The tilling and loosing of the soil with the help of the spade can help to loosen the soil. Clay absorbs water very slowly the watering should be done only till the soil can absorb the water.

The sandy soil can be added with organic material to make it richer. The water can easily run through the soil otherwise and the plants won’t be able to absorb the same. The loam soil is the best soil. It is made from a combination of sand, silt and clay. The water can be easily absorbed and stored in the soil which the plants can use later.

The watering of the soil should always be done at the right time of the day. Generally the early morning or the night is the ideal time as the water does not reduce due to the evaporation. The loss of water can also be prevented by not watering the soil when it is windy as the water can get blown away from the focussed area.