1605
Soil preparation
Successful Colorado Gardeners learn how to take advantage of the
favorable properties of our soil and how to improve it through soil
preparation.
The most important thing to add to any Colorado soil isn't fertilizer,
it's organic materials like compost, peat and manure. Organic materials
are also known as organic amendments.
To
organically amend soil, add a two-inch layer of organic material over the
surface of the soil and mix it into the top four to six inches. Add four
cubic yards of organic amendment per 1,000 square feet of soil area.
Clay soils hold water and are naturally fertile but has a tendency to
pack, which can hinder plant growth. Adding organic materials loosens
tightly packed clay particles to make space for the air, which is critical
to plant root growth.
 Sandy soils drain freely, eliminating plant growth problems from too
much water. But, sometimes plants in sandy soil don't get enough water.
Organic amendments added to sandy or rocky soil act like a sponge to hold
enough water for plants to grow. Organic materials also hold fertilizer
nutrients, another item often lacking in sandy soils.
Before planting lawns, trees and shrubs, add organic materials to the
soil. Where perennial and annual plantings like flowers and vegetables are
grown, the soil can be amended every year. For the best results, amend
soils with organic material and then carefully regulate the amount of
water given to plants.
For more information, see the following Colorado State Extension fact sheet(s).
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