Compost & Soil Preparation

Good gardeners grow good soil. It's the soil that grows the garden. 

 

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Banner compost
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Compost Systems

The real work of composting is done by a variety of underground inhabitants including earthworms, sowbugs, bacteria, fungi and other micro-organisms. Some you can see, but most you cannot.
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Hands in Soil
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Avoid Disturbing Your Soil

Natures no-till way relies on leaving the soil alone and nourishing it by the continual addition of new layers of dying and dead plant matter.
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banner mulch
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Applying Mulch

?Where to use mulch ?What to use ?When and how often to apply ?How much do I need ?How to apply ?
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Hands in Soil
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How To Evaluate Soil

Soils vary greatly from one place to another, even in your own garden. No matter how much work you do in your garden, all may be in vain if the quality of your soil is poor. Listed below are some things you can do to get to know your soil.
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Green onions planted in the garden
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Soil

Healthy soil is the secret to a successful garden. Just like you need nutritious food to grow and thrive, your plants need healthy soil to produce beautiful flowers, delicious vegetables, and strong roots.
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What Is Healthy Soil

Earthworms are an excellent indicator of healthy soil. Photo, Sippakorn Yamkasikorn, Pexels Dirt and soil are NOT the same thing. Dirt is a lifeless mixture of minerals, air, and water.
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Soil Tips

Garden Help > Monthly TipsGood nutrient balance makes healthy garden soils. It is beneficial to get soil tested by a state-certified laboratory. Below is a collection of our monthly tips that relate to garden soils.To-dosWhat to Plant⁠To-do: SoilBone Meal for Bulbs?Clean Garden BedsCover CropsMulch Bare…
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Source URL: https://class.ucanr.edu/site/uc-master-gardeners-monterey-santa-cruz-counties/collection/compost-soil-preparation