Where do you start if you want to create a home garden? Most homeowners consider gardening a simple undertaking that any DIY hobbyist can accomplish. After all, you already have the soil, and all you need are gardening tools and some seeds. Well, it is not quite the case. Fertile soil is perhaps the most critical supply you need for plants — herbs or flowers — to thrive in a home garden. Unfortunately, most homeowners disregard the importance of quality soil in their gardening endeavours. If you are serious about gardening, you must understand the basics of soil preparation. This article provides the fundamentals of soil preparation for a home garden.

Conduct Soil Test — When you hear the words 'soil test,' the chances are high that you imagine sophisticated equipment and procedures. While it is true that soil tests are carried out in a lab setting, the process is not intricate, especially if all you want to do is plant some flowers. The simplicity makes soil tests an indispensable tool, particularly for homeowners starting a new garden. Since plants reflect soil fertility, you should try as much as possible to ensure your garden contains the necessary nutrients and neutralising agents for vegetation to thrive. Thus, a soil test guides you on what minerals to add to improve soil fertility. It is advisable to work closely with a soil expert to help you understand an evaluation report for better decision-making.

Till Naturally — Most homeowners till their gardens manually using handheld tools such as hoes. While it is okay if you want to start planting soon, natural tilling is the best approach. You can cultivate a garden naturally by building compost right on top of the soil. Over time, the compost invites essential soil organisms, such as earthworms and nematodes, which burrow through the soil and improve its quality. Although natural tilling often takes a long time, it has numerous benefits, including maximising nutrients and keeping the soil intact.

Supply Nitrogen — Living soil retains most nutrients, but nitrogen is often in short supply. Since nitrogen feeds plants and soil organisms, it should be available in plenty for the long-term health of your garden. Some homeowners think that the compost in their gardens provides the necessary nitrogen required for plants to thrive, but it is not the case. Therefore, you should use organic fertilisers to replenish depleted nitrogen in the soil right before planting. With an adequate nitrogen supply in the soil, you can rest assured that your garden will thrive all season long.

For more information on soil preparation, contact a professional near you.