Be Inspired Blog - Arizona
Prepare Your Soil for Fall Planting in 3 Easy Steps
Perhaps one of the biggest opportunities gardeners have is preparing the soil correctly before planting. A successful garden always begins with healthy vibrant soil that is packed full of nutrients. Just like people, plants also require a balanced diet of nutrients that are provided by the soil. By taking a little extra time to ensure that your soil is prepared correctly, you are creating an environment that ensures your veggies will thrive and in turn be chocked full of nutrients to nourish you.
The type and condition of the soil in your garden will determine the amount of time and effort it will take to prepare your soil correctly. Don’t know where to start? SummerWinds Nursery has listed below 3 simple steps on how to prepare your soil correctly. So, set up some temporary shade to work under, roll up your sleeves and let’s get started!
1. Dig In, Dig Deep, and Till Your Soil
Start by tilling the soil down 8 to12 inches. You can do this the old-fashioned way with shovel, and a little sweat or cut down on the time and sore muscles by using a garden tiller. Also remember to pull out any rocks, weeds, dirty clumps and debris. SummerWinds has the tools you need for whichever method you prefer.
2. Amend Your Soil and Fill’er Up
Adding nutrients to your soil will ensure your garden yields a large, healthy and nutritious crop. There are several different options for amending your soil. You can add in organic matter like compost, earth worm castings, peat moss, and plant matter, or opt for an organic fertilizer like chicken or steer manure. Whichever soil amendments or supplements you choose, simply add a 2 to 3 inch layer to the soil and repeat the tilling process again making sure the amendments and supplements are evenly distributed throughout the soil to a depth of 8-12”. Once your amendments are well mixed with the soil, rake everything down flat and you are done. You’ll want your soil to feel crumbly, moist, and look dark in color. That’s when you know you’ve got it right.
3. Water Thoroughly
Once you have tilled and amended your soil correctly, water it generously. Watering the soil thoroughly helps settle the soil and allows the amendments and nutritional supplements to saturate the soil and disperse for better growing results.
It’s just that easy! In one to two days you’ll be ready to start planting and SummerWinds Nursery will be there to help you pick out the perfect plants for your garden.
SummerWinds Nursery sells a variety of ready to use garden soils that are designed for specific applications. We also have an incredible assortment of plants to grow fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs, arriving daily in the fall; perfect for growing in your fall garden. Enjoy the varieties you want, along with the gratification that only digging in a little dirt can provide. With Summerwinds Nursery’s plant guarantee and expert advice, you're sure to succeed.
A Little More About Soils, Amendments & Fertilizers
Soils, Amendments & Fertilizers
One key element to determining the success of your plants is using the right soil. There are many components to maintaining the ideal garden soil for your plants. Knowing what type of soil your plants need, what type of soil you have, how to amend and fertilize your soil and what options you have for organic pest control will ensure your plants flourish. SummerWinds Nursery's Trusted Garden Advisors can help you navigate all of these choices. We can help you select the best organic soil, choose between organic fertilizer and nitrogen fertilizer and offer many options for organic pesticides.
Want to Learn More About Soil Preparation?
Watch our “How To Prep Your Soil” video and get step-by-step instructions.
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