Those who have grown their own food realize that there is a big difference between the typical dirt that can be found in the average back yard and Garden Dirt in Austin TX. This is because plants require a high level of organic matter in order to grow and thrive. This organic matter is what gives garden dirt its black color and its unique mulchy texture. The differences, however, go beyond what can be seen by the naked eye.
Most food producing plants require a pH of between six and seven, and all require higher levels of nitrogen and other nutrients than are typically found in ordinary topsoil. This doesn’t mean that top soil cannot be used for gardening, but it will need to have soil amendments added to it. Existing pH and nutrient levels can be tested by sending a sample in to a local lab, and the results they send back can be used to determine what type of amendments the soil will require. They typically include some form of compost, mulch, and fertilizer.
Often gardening dirt in Austin, TX can be mixed with less expensive top soil with good results. The best way to do this is to till the garden dirt thoroughly before adding top soil to the mix. A few inches should then be mixed in with the existing dirt, then a further layer of top soil should be layered on top. This helps ensure that plants can adjust more easily to the new soil, and that the more nutrient dense gardening soil is available further down into the ground where the plants’ roots can easily get to it. Soil amendments can be mixed in or layered using a technique known as lasagna mulching.
It’s important to do some additional research before planting a garden, as many food producing plants and beautiful flowers require very specific conditions to thrive or even just survive. The soil will likely have to be tailored to the needs of these specific plants, which should be planted nearby others that have the same or similar requirements. Visit us website to learn more about a local source of dirt, stone, gravel, and other gardening materials.
