Soil is an essential part of your garden. That is why it is essential for you to learn all you can about your soil. Below is a list of tips for getting the most out of your soil in Red Deer:

Find Out About The Type Of Soil That You Have

Soil is made up of three main components, clay, sand and silt. The proportions of the three components will indicate the type of soil that you have. The USDA National Soil Survey has information that will help you determine the type of soil. You can also do your own soil test. Keep in mind that you may have several types of soil in your yard.

Test The Infiltration Rate

It is important to test your soil’s infiltration rate. There are some plants that can tolerate soil that drains poorly while others are better suited for drought-prone soil. When you research, you may find that some require good drainage. This means that the soil has to drain freely.

There are a few steps that you will need to perform in order to test the infiltration rate. You will need to dig a hole that is about 12 inches deep. After that, you will need to fill it with water and time how long it takes for the water to drain.

The ideal infiltration rate is two inches per hour. If the infiltration rate is less than one inch per hour, then this means that your soil has poor-drainage. Poorly-draining plants are best-suited for this type of soil.

Observe The Soil

You can learn a lot about your soil by simply observing it. Ponding, erosion and cracks are some of the common problems that soil can have. Ponding is where a low spot is collecting water. You should use plants that are suited for water-logged soils. Water may be causing your soil to erode. You should use plants that will spread and colonize, which will hold the soil in place.

Cracks are an indication that there is clay in the soil. You should use plants that are able to tolerate clay.

Test Your Soil

If you live in an older home, then there is a possibility that your soil may have lead. You should have your soil tested for lead. You can still have a garden if there is lead in the soil, but there are precautions that you have to take.

Test Your Soil’s PH

PH ranges from 0 to 14. The PH of your soil will determine the type of plants that you can grow in your garden. A low PH indicates acidity while a high PH indicates alkalinity. A PH that ranges from 6.5 to 7 is considered neutral.

Use Organic Practices

Organic practices can improve the health of your soil. For example, you can use decomposed manure, which is rich in microbes and nutrients. You can also put grass clippings and leaves in your garden.