Compacted clay

Q How do we address the compacted clay soil in our new-build garden?

A You’ll have to dig over the soil and incorporate lots of horticultural sand and grit. Depending on whether the soil is just compacted or actually waterlogged, you may also need to install more permanent drainage. Try digging trenches and filling them with gravel to move the water away from some areas. It’s probably best to grow plants in raised beds for now!

It’s also a good idea to dig in some organic matter, such as well-rotted compost and manure, to improve the soil structure and help plants grow more vigorously. In the long term, grit and sand are the key to permanent soil improvement.