CREATING A TILTH Although seedlings do not need the most fertile soil, they are unlikely to thrive unless their environment has been prepared carefully beforehand. Creating what gardeners call a fine tilth, where the soil surface is raked into fine crumbs, is important for successful germination, but this is easier on some soils than others. All soil types will benefit from the addition of a good organic compost. On heavy clay soils, working in a layer of sand helps to reduce stickiness and improve structure and drainage. 1. CLEAR WEEDS. Thoroughly weed the seedbed, taking care to remove whole perennial roots, like those of dandelions which will regrow if left in the soil. Remove any large stones too. 2.IMPROVE THE SOIL. Add a layer of well rotted compost, as well as sand, to help drainage if you are working heavy clay.Dig the soil over lightly with a fork to break up the surface and work in the compost. 3. RAKE TO A TILTH. Firm the soil gently with the back of your rake, then move the rake backwards and forwards across the bed, removing stones, until you have a good, even, crumbly tilth. 4. MARK OUT A DRILL. Once you are happy with the soil texture, you can start sowing. Draw the pointed hedge of a hoe through the soil to make a tidy drill at the correct depth for your chosen seeds
Posted on: Sun, 11 Jan 2015 20:19:54 +0000
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