ON IMPROVING YOUR SOIL

Improving your soil will reduce the need to feed and water your plants. Get it in good heart and it will do the hard work for you.

ASSESS THE TEXTURE

Check what you have: a crumbly cake-like texture with plenty of worm activity is what you are aiming for.

ADD WHAT’S NEEDED

Clay soil will need opening up with some homemade compost or well-rotted manure. Apply in autumn and leave worms to take it down for you over winter.

IMPROVE DRAINAGE

Adding coarse grit to heavy, sticky soil will make it more free-draining. Soil also drains better when it contains enough organic matter.

MAKE LEAF MOULD

Allow fallen leaves on flowerbeds to rot down in situ. Gather them from paths and drives, then bag up to make leaf mould.