Experienced growers know that a beautiful, sustainable garden starts with living, healthy soil. Most plants thrive in well-drained, slightly acidic, soils that are rich in organic matter. The challenge, however, is that most of the world’s soils do not exist this way and they must be balanced, or amended, to provide the conditions necessary for robust plant growth. Click on the information and news below to learn about soil health and what can be done to improve it.
What's the best fertilizer -- natural vs. synthetic -- to use in your garden?
Here's a list of some organic fertilizers you may encounter and their benefits.
Leaves, turned into protective mulch, soil-enhancing leaf mold or rich compost, are the fall season's gift to the composter.
Encourage explosive root growth and maximize your garden's potential with mycorrhizal fungi.
Did you know that turkey manure is one hot fertilizer with slightly more nitrogen than chicken manure?
For years, farmers have been encouraged to dump nitrogen fertilizers on their fields — without regard to waste and overuse.
Plant and grow a cover crop this fall to improve next season's vegetable garden.
Tips for using straw as a mulch (and more!) in the vegetable garden.
Learn how to apply mulch -- and what's best to use -- on your gardens and landscaped areas.