Grass and plant roots also serve to draw nutrients from deep in the soil closer to the surface, improving the healthiness of the topsoil. Ryegrass and clover make excellent choices for basic groundcover, as their roots spread deep and hold fast. Other useful anchoring plants include grains such as wheat, barley, and rye and crops of root vegetables like radishes. [2] X Trustworthy Source Michigan State University Extension Extension program of Michigan State University focused on community outreach, education, and engagement Go to source
For best results, group trees or shrubs relatively close together so that little space exists between them for wind to penetrate. Choose tree species that develop thick foliage, like Eastern Red Cedar, Lombardy Poplar, and Red Pine.
When soil becomes compacted, its particles are pressed tightly together so that water cannot penetrate deep into its sublayers, causing the uppermost layers of soil to be worn away by runoff. In addition, soil compaction causes aeration problems within soil, meaning that it’s less likely that you’ll be able to get things to grow in places where the soil is badly compacted. Be careful about habitually walking in the same places if the soil in your yard or garden is compacted; this will just make the problem worse. Choose a new footpath to take, or stand on a broad, flat board when gardening to keep your body weight from contributing to soil compaction.
Create multiple no-dig plots to serve as flower beds or patches for growing crops that require similar soil conditions. A wealth of different planting schemes exist, but all make use of the same basic structure: multiple tiers of compostable matter are layered over a permeable surface like cardboard directly on top of the ground. Look into different ideas for constructing your own no-dig garden. [6] X Research source [7] X Research source
Mulch can be bought cheap at any gardening center, or you can easily make your own at home by feeding scrap wood, live foliage and decaying plant matter into a shredder to form a composite.
Dig a simple paved irrigation ditch by hand, or embed PVC or drainage pipe into the channel to install what is known as a “French Drain,” which conducts water away with greater efficiency.
Tilling can be done using an automatic or push rototiller that makes use of a rotary wheel covered in small spikes that aerate the soil as they turn, or by hand, using a shovel or pitchfork to make shallow stabs into the soil and turn it over a few feet at a time.
Create a landscaping terrace by leveling the embankment of a slope and reinforcing the vertical walls with wood beams or stone. [12] X Research source Constructing a terrace is also a good way of organizing flowering plants and crops, as each level of the terrace can be used to grow something different.
A rain barrel most often works in conjunction with a gutter or irrigation system so that water flow is directed straight into the barrel. Catch basins are easy to install yourself. The only require measuring the unit and digging a hole of the right dimensions to accommodate it at the bottom of a slope.
Ecological restoration groups sometimes operate out of farms and universities, and many will assist in repairing erosion damage voluntarily or for little cost. Even if your soil is healthy, you should consult with a professional landscaper once a year or so to inspect your property for potential problems and discuss preventative solutions.
In addition to infusing soil with badly needed nutrients, the subterranean movement of earthworms also acts as a kind of hands-free aeration process, increasing nutrient mixture, moisture retention and room for new root growth in topsoil. Earthworms can be purchased at most gardening supply stores for this very purpose, or may be acquired locally from conservation groups.
In order to select the right amendment for your soil, it is first necessary to identify the exact properties your soil lacks. You may be able to use erosion symptoms to diagnose various deficiencies, but it’s probably wiser to work with a landscaper or other soil expert to find out what’s missing from your soil and take the appropriate action.
