My first garden
Follow this dialogue on our member planting their first garden.
Diggers member:
Hello
Just wondering if I could get some advice as I am about to plant my first garden.
The garden has a few spindly roses which I'm planning on removing and replacing with some summer perennials. I've tested the soil pH, which is 6. Is there anything I should do to the soil before I plant it out in autumn? Add manure or fertiliser, for instance? I've read the Complete Guide to the Flower Garden, but wasn't too sure how to prepare the soil for optimal results.
Many thanks
Diggers Hort Advisor:
Hi member,
You have an exciting Autumn ahead of you.
Soil preparation is never a waste of time. It sounds like you already have a fairly neutral to slightly acidic soil as a baseline which is great to know. Most plants do well in this range.
Digging through lots of compost and some slow-release pelleted complete fertiliser prior to planting will auger well for your new selections. You can never add too much well-aged compost as it helps increase water holding capacity and increases the microbial activity in the garden soil as well as adding nutrients and improving soil structure.
I have copied some links from our newly revamped website for some extra reading when you have time.
Organic gardening - growing your own fertility
Test your soil again in a few different spots after any alterations/additions are made so you always know your starting point which may change over time. pH can be adjusted with Dolomite lime if the pH becomes too acidic. (much under 6) Neutral is 6.5-7.5 and this is the most ideal range for most plants.
Dig your soil over and get to know whether it is a heavier clay or sandy and if you dig a hole and fill it with water, watch how quickly it drains so you know how well your soil retains moisture.
Hopefully these tips allow you to feel confident moving forward into the autumn planting time.