An easy way to add organic matter to your veggie garden:
In spring, add 1-2” layer of compost.
In summer, mulch with straw
In fall, plant a cover crop. Buckwheat does the best in our area. If you need more organic matter, add another 1-2” layer of compost before sowing the cover crop.
Plants need twelve inches of good soil for optimum root development.
Have your soil tested to know what nutrients need to be added. It’s a good idea to beat the rush and send in your soil sample before April 1st.
Determine what type of soil you have. It’s easy.
Gypsum (calcium sulfate) counteracts the buildup of winter salt. Be sure to water it in after applying.
Our soil in this part of the state is alkaline and contains plenty of lime. The pH ranges from 6 to 9.
New beds need a 3-4” layer of organic matter. Established beds need 1-2”.
Too much of a good thing isn’t always good when it comes to organic matter. In raised beds, mix organic matter with topsoil to insure a good balance.
Good sources of organic matter include well-rotted manure, cotton burr compost, shredded decomposed leaves, and untreated grass clippings.
Here are a few ways to activate the microorganisms in your compost pile: add compost starter, add Red Star yeast mixed with water, add a 3-4” layer of soil between the green/brown layers.
Burlington Garden Center 5205 Mormon Road (Hwy 36 South) Burlington WI 53105 262-763-2153 burlingtongc@sbcglobal.net
