Do organic amendments improve soil structure?

Organic amendments radically change the physical structure of your soil. Compost creates crumbly aggregates, allowing for the movement of air and water. Wood chips create a protective layer of mulch to prevent erosion caused by the movement of air and water. Greensand loosens compacted soils of clay. I have observed this phenomenon in my own heavy clay garden over the course of three seasons. These changes ultimately make your soil more conducive to root growth.

These modifications to the soil's structure provide significant benefits and improvements for plants. Improved aeration enables roots to grow deeper into the soil, allowing them to access a greater range of nutrients. Additionally, increased infiltration of water into the soil reduces runoff during heavy precipitation. Improved structure also allows habitats for microbes to thrive. For example, I witnessed earthworm populations double after repeated amending. Plants are strengthened from below as the soil's architecture increases.

Every type of soil has specific structural amendments that will benefit it. Clay soils can benefit from the addition of greensand and compost, as aeration is important. Sandy soils can benefit from a moderate amount of wood chips and coconut coir for improved stability. Loamy soils can maintain their structure with an annual compost topdressing. I have a specific set of amendments that I apply, which vary depending on the particular parts of my garden; these amendments help improve the functionality or efficiency of my plants. The purpose of facilitating your soil structure amendments depends on your soil type.

Structural modifications happen slowly but largely. The first improvements begin to develop within just a few weeks of moisture retention. It will take one to three growing seasons for aggregation to fully develop. I take photos of the soil depths each year to show the sod producers' progress. So, even when things take time, your wait will ultimately produce rewards that are a permanent improvement to your soil's architecture!

This season, start using compost. Add a 2-inch layer to your garden beds and you'll see how much better the soil absorbs rainfall in just a few weeks. I began the journey of transforming my soil health by doing that. Your first step is the first step towards building improvements that will last for generations.

Read the full article: 10 Essential Organic Soil Amendments