Lowcountry Real Estate
Dawn Yerace, Lowcountry Real EstatePhone: (843) 441-6518
Email: [email protected]

Building soil for a better garden

by Dawn Yerace 12/22/2023

Improving or “building” soil is essential for every successful home garden. By adding the right nutrients, you can help your plants grow healthy and plentiful. Luckily, the process is fairly simple, and can save you money you’d otherwise spend on ready-made soil.

Here are some beginner tips for turning regular dirt into healthy garden soil:

Start with a soil test

Before you add anything to your soil, use a soil test kit to determine what it needs. This test can tell you about your soil pH level and the amount of essential plant nutrients it contains. Certain plants require a specific pH range to thrive, so be sure to research the individual soil needs for each plant.

The most important minerals for a happy garden are potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, sulfur and calcium. Soil deficient in a specific mineral can be improved with specific ingredients or “amendments.” If all the minerals are low, an all-purpose fertilizer is the best place to begin.

Create a compost pile

You can easily create your own all-purpose fertilizer by composting organic kitchen scraps and garden waste. Composting slowly breaks down the materials into their basic components, most of which are needed for plants to survive. Some examples of compostable materials you might have at home include dry leaves, vegetable scraps, lawn clippings and coffee grounds.

Not only will compost add valuable nutrients, it will also improve soil structure, maintain a neutral soil pH, and help the soil retain moisture for healthy plant roots. Compost will also feed the earthworms and other soil organisms, which promote aeration and further improve fertility.

Composting takes patience, but using your leftover organic matter to create healthy soil will benefit you and your garden over time.

About the Author
Author

Dawn Yerace

 As a seasoned real estate agent with an unwavering commitment to excellence, a deep well of local knowledge, and a proven track record of satisfied clients, I bring a unique blend of expertise and passion to every transaction. With years of experience navigating the intricate landscape of the Beaufort real estate market, I possess an acute understanding of trends, neighborhoods, and property values, allowing me to provide invaluable guidance to my clients.

What truly sets me apart is my unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. I understand that buying or selling a home is one of the most significant decisions you'll ever make, and I strive to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. My personalized approach ensures that each client receives the attention and support they deserve every step of the way.

So, whether you're looking to buy, sell, or invest in real estate, trust in my expertise, dedication, and local knowledge to guide you through every aspect of the journey. Let's turn your real estate dreams into reality together.