We've seen great-looking gardens with bursts of pretty colors, beautifully paved walkways and hardscaping marvels that make you want to weep with joy. But how is all that lushness created? Why, with the right soil, of course!
There are numerous varieties of soils and despite each region having a unique composition, there are several that gardens must have to facilitate plant growth. Let's look at what they are.
The topsoil, subsoil and bedrock: The topsoil is the soil found on the topmost layer. It consists of around six inches of earth and is where you'll find a high content of living organisms responsible for aerating the soil and keeping it filled with nutrients. It's also the layer that sees compost, mulch and fertilizer being applied. What must be done with topsoil is to blend it well before mixing it with existing soil. This can create problems with water absorption so make sure the two are blended properly.
The layer just below the topsoil is the subsoil. It contains a high amount of inorganic minerals that filter down from the topsoil along with minerals formed over thousands of years, examples being gypsum, aluminium and iron. While the subsoil doesn't contain as many living organisms, it helps regulate drainage and the ability of plants' roots to absorb nutrients.
The bedrock is the lowest layer and consists of rock. It's what excavators have to drill through to lay foundations for construction projects.
These are the three layers of soil but not the types. The following are found in one of the three layers and may be present in all three as well:
• Clay is found in the lower layers of soil and is distinguishable by its sticky, lumpy nature when wet. It's becomes rock-hard when dry and doesn't have too many air spaces either way. Despite this, improving drainage can see clay facilitate good plant growth because it contains a high amount of minerals.
• Sand is gritty, easy to cultivate in and warms up rapidly. However, it isn't as nutrient-rich as clay and dries out fast especially during warm months.
• While clay is sticky and sand gritty, silt is loamy and smooth. It retains moisture, has good drainage and is easy to cultivate. If you know how to work with it, it can be one of the best soils for your garden.
• Peat is comprised of decaying vegetation so there's a much higher percentage of organic matter. It's recognizable by a dark color and its highly water-retentive property which usually necessitates that it be drained every now and again.
• Loam is next which is rich in nutrients, has excellent drainage and retains moisture perfectly. It doesn't dry out in hot summer months and neither does it compact excessively when wet. This is the best type of soil and if you have it in your garden, being the proud owner of a lush, green space should be a breeze.
Most gardens need additional soil to heighten fertility. It's not common for any one garden to possess such nutrient-rich soil which means you need to have yours checked and adjusted accordingly. Soil aside, light conditions, watering and the inclusion of fertilizers are necessary. You can seek additional advice from a nursery.
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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Hilario_M_Gallegos
Know Which Soil Contributes To A Luscious Garden
