Tilth Physical condition of soil,

especially in relation to its suitability for planting or growing a crop.

The ability of the soil to form stable aggregates

Improved by the addition of organic matter

Improves both moisture holding and drainage.

Improves the microbial balance of the soil

Tilth

Good Bad

Compaction

Why do you sink in a ball pit?

All particles are the same size Cannot compact Pore space is always

the same Readjust position

If particles were different sizes: Small particles are

forced into pore spaces Compaction

Types of Soils

Particle Size Sand Silt Clay

Soil Classification Sandy Soil Clayey Soil Loamy Soil

Drainage

The ability to hold just the right amount of water

Drainage is measured by percolation tests Sandy soils don’t hold enough water Clay soils hold too much

Water – what is available for plants? Percolating water Capillary water

Adhesive (bound) Ground water

Soil Improvement

Drainage & Aeration: Create Aggregates

Lime & gypsum Organic Matter

Add earthworms Raised beds

Moisture Retention Organic Matter Mulches

Tillage - the plowing or harrowing of land in preparation for growing crops Good

Break up clumps Mix in soil

amendments Remove rocks &

roots Shape the soil

Raised bed or furrow Remove weeds

Bad Increased erosion Can hurt soil

aggregates Wet soil Clay soil

Can disrupt earthworm and fungi

No-till

Seed is drilled or sliced into soil Top cover of stubble, dead material is not

removed

When can soil be worked in Spring? Must crumble when worked Dig about 6” down If a hand-full of soil forms a tight ball after

releasing pressure, it needs to dry more Working soil too soon in spring causes

compaction

Soil texture testing

Need samples Clay area behind greenhouse Sandy soil mixed Garden soil

Texture test Compaction Test Suspension Test