Alleviating Dense Garden Soil: Strategies for Remedying Compacted Soil in Your Garden
Soil compaction, a common issue in Germany and many other countries, can have detrimental effects on plant growth and overall soil health. Heavy machinery use in agriculture, intensive traffic, and urbanization leading to soil sealing are the main causes of soil compaction in Germany.
Mary Ellen Ellis, a seasoned gardener with over 20 years of experience and degrees in Chemistry and Biology, specializing in flowers, native plants, and herbs, offers valuable advice on how to reduce soil compaction.
Soil compaction occurs when the soil becomes dense and closely packed together with minimal pore space. This problem can make it difficult to grow plants as their root systems may not develop as robustly as they would in looser soil. In compacted soil, the soil doesn't absorb water as well, and it tends to pool. Moreover, minimal pore space restricts oxygen absorption, which can further harm plant growth.
To prevent soil compaction, Ellis suggests taking preventative steps. One such method is growing a cover crop at the end of the growing season and turning it into the soil in early spring. This practice can help loosen compacted soil and add nutrients. Another effective solution is amending compacted soil with compost. Organic materials break up the soil and attract worms and microorganisms that will further break it down.
Avoiding working with soil when it's wet is also crucial in preventing soil compaction. Tilling and digging in compacted soil is difficult, and adding sand to clay soils can make compaction worse. Minimal equipment or the smallest possible machine needed for a job can help reduce soil compaction.
In high-traffic areas, using mulch in the garden allows more water to filter through the soil and prevents some compaction. Additionally, avoiding foot traffic in garden beds as much as possible can also help reduce soil compaction.
For turf, aerating the soil is beneficial. Aeration prevents thatch from accumulating and allows water and oxygen to get to grass roots. However, earthworms cannot break down as much organic matter in compacted soil, so maintaining a healthy soil structure is essential for their survival and the overall health of the soil.
Healthy soil should be half soil-sand, silt, minerals, clay, organic matter, and half pore space. By following these tips, we can help ensure our soil remains healthy and supportive of plant growth.
