How to Make Hard Soil Soft

Remedying the situation requires both physical manipulation of the soil and the addition of soil amendments to improve aeration and drainage.

1. Till or plow the soil to a depth of 10 to 12 inches when the soil is dry. Severely compacted soil may require a plow, but most can be tilled with a garden tiller. Till the area in a back and forth motion in one direction until the entire area is tilled. Repeat the procedure by tilling in the opposite direction.

2. Allow the soil to dry before walking on it or adding amendments. A sunny afternoon or two typically dries the soil, but the time required depends on the weather and your specific soil's composition and moisture content.

3. Break up any clods of soil with a garden hoe or spade. Remove rocks, roots and debris from the area. Rake the area smooth.

4. Place a 3- to 4-inch layer of organic matter over the soil. Peat moss works well, but may be cost prohibitive in large areas. Compost or well-rotted manure both add organic matter and are ideal for garden plots.

5. Work the organic matter into the soil with a garden tiller. Organic matter increases aeration and promotes good drainage reducing the risk of compaction.

Warning

Do not add sand to clay soils, as the small particles in clay bind with the sand creating dense soil that compacts easily. Avoid tilling soil when it is excessively wet. Always allow soil to dry after tilling it. The weight of your footsteps can easily compact wet soil.