Gardening Tips & Techniques from the Experts at Harris Garden Center

It is important to choose an open, sunny location for your garden where the plants will have plenty of light and good air circulation. 

The best soil is sandy loam, but both sandy and clay soils can be used if well drained.  Light sandy soil usually needs humus, peat moss, compost or manure.  Heavy clay can be made more workable with large amounts of peat moss, vermiculite, or perlite, and compost helps also.

Make your soil as rich and fertile as possible.  Peat moss, compost and a good garden fertilizer are essential for optimal results.  Mix thoroughly into the soil in early spring and fertilize as necessary during the growing season.  Maintaining the humus or organic matter in your soil is most important for soil structure, proper aeration and water-holding capacity.

Rototill or spade your garden area in the spring to a depth of at least 8 inches.  This can be done when the soil dries out to the point where you can squeeze a handful of soil that will hold its shape but will crumble when you press it with your thumb.