I wrote this on another group, So I have more questions (if I can get around to it.) Anything grow good In plack soil, but is pasty. (I packed some in a pot, and , decided to dump it, and it all came out in one clump.) (It has been raining, but other soil wouldn't have done that.) If I add sand how well qwill it help dranage?,. peat moss , and other idea's will be helpful (Im going to read about amending it with other stuff, I'd like to know what Knowledge you might have to offer me Thank you (In advance) (This is for a raised garden My soil got ruined by paint chips )
In my experience every clay soil is different, and requires some thought in what to do to make a good garden bed. Adding sand to some clays can be a major disaster, since you might end up with weak concrete. My general approach is to insure all the surface water is well drained. Condition with much vegetative compost and work in with a tiller. I mean a lot of compost. I put about 60 cubic yards in my 2000 square feet. Some clay can be worked well if only approached when relatively dry. In general, clay has a lot of nutrients and will grow almost anything well, but it must be loosened and never walk on it when wet. My two cents worth.
