Typical Soil

Good

Mixture of different sized soil particles (‘loams’), plenty of organic matter and living organisms. Water drains freely, yet soil is moisture retentive. Soil is fertile, with good air content (not compacted).

Needs help!

Excess of one soil particle size, waterlogged or too free draining. Little organic matter and few living organisms. Soil has low or unavailable fertility. Compacted with little air. Often unimproved clay, very sandy soils, and those treated with a lot of artificial chemical fertilisers.

Basics of feeding soil 

Different soils need different fertilisers and crops vary in their needs. Fortunately, adding organic matter such as well-rotted manure and home-made compost is a remedy for most situations. These wonderful materials add the three main nutrients plants need. These ‘mineral ions’ are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K), known as ‘NPK’. They are also a source of ‘trace’ minerals, eg zinc and iron. Importantly, organic matter also develops the soil structure and encourages living organisms.

Adding more fertiliser 

‘Concentrated’ fertilisers are widely available, but unlike organic matter, don’t usually develop the soil structure. Instead they are best used to remedy specific nutrient deficiencies in the soil and for plants growing 

in containers. Those suitable for use in organic gardening include plant-based products such as comfrey liquid and animal based products, such as pelleted chicken manure or ‘hoof-and-horn’.  Organic growing doesn’t use artificial chemical fertilisers as their use doesn’t support and enrich natural soil systems.

Be careful when handling soil. Cover open wounds, wear gloves if necessary, and wash hands. Keep tetanus vaccinations up to date. Be aware that soil and organic matter can be dusty when dry and slippery when wet.