Your plants and lawn will grow better if your soil is in top shape. Add organic matter to make your soil more workable and to help it hold water and nutrients. Lay it 2 inches deep around trees, shrubs and woody ground covers. For lawns and beds, use 3 to 6 inches.
If your soil has tested too acid or alkaline, adjust its pH by adding limestone, sulfur or an equivalent. A soil pH of 6.5 is the goal.
Remember, soil tends to return to its original pH. You’ll save work down the road by confining your pH changes to small areas. Better yet, choose plants that tolerate the existing pH in your yard.

Step by Step
1. If the soil is sticky wet, wait until it dries. If it’s bone dry, soak it and wait a few days. It’s just right when a handful feels crumbly and somewhat moist.
2. Rake the soil clear of weeds and debris.
3. Using a wheelbarrow, shovel and rake, spread organic matter evenly over the soil.
4. If you need to add limestone or sulfur, scatter it evenly.
5. Also scatter a 10-10-10 fertilizer at the rate of 20 pounds per 1,000 square feet.
6. With a spade or spading fork, mix all amendments into the top 8 inches or so of soil. For large areas, use a rotary tiller and make a second pass at right angles to the first.
7. Rake the soil until it is smooth, removing any rocks and breaking up any clods.

Tools
- shovel
- rake
- rotary tiller
- spade
- spading fork
- wheelbarrow

Safety
Soil sulfur can be caustic. Wear rubber gloves when applying it, and follow the directions on the label.

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