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UC Master Gardeners of Monterey & Santa Cruz Counties

Compost & Soil Preparation

Good gardeners grow good soil. It's the soil that grows the garden. 

 

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Hands in Soil
UC Marin Master Gardeners: Page

Soil

Photo: Lukas, Pexals Soil is a naturally occurring mixture of inorganic and organic ingredients with a definite form, structure, and composition, that varies from one location to another.
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banner mulch
UC Marin Master Gardeners: Page

Mulch

Mulch is material placed on top of soil to cover and protect it, improve soil structure and fertility, and enhance the areas overall appearance.
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Banner Compost A
UC Marin Master Gardeners: Page

Compost

Composting is the process of turning kitchen and yard waste and other organic materials into a decomposed soil amendment. It is a natural process that provides beneficial microbes and is a key ingredient in organic gardening and farming.
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Seedlings, sunflower, and pomegranates represent spring, summer, and fall in the garden/
UC Master Gardeners of Butte County: Page

Garden Guide & Three-Year Journal

The Butte County Garden Guide and Three-Year Journal is compiled and edited by the UC-trained Master Gardeners of Butte County. This county-specific book contains tips for every home gardener.
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Banner compost A
UC Marin Master Gardeners: Page

Other Soil Amendments

Credit: UC ANR A soil amendment is any material added to soil to improve its physical properties, such as water retention, permeability, drainage, aeration, and structure. They can also be used to modify soil pH. There are lots of different materials available you can use to improve your soil.
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Seedlings, sunflower, and pomegranates represent spring, summer, and fall in the garden/
UC Master Gardeners of Butte County: Page

Garden Guide Extras

The Guide is full of information to help you on your gardening journey. Besides a wide range of articles, the weekly journal layout includes information pertinent for that week. The appendix is a helpful reference on planting, insects, and orchards. Get tips on how to customize and to use it.
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Hands in Soil
UC Marin Master Gardeners: Page

Common Soil Problems

George Becker, Pexels Unhealthy soil causes poor plant performance. Correct soil deficiencies in your garden before you plant.
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Green onions planted in the garden
UC Master Gardener Program: Page

Soil

Healthy soil is the secret to a successful garden. Just like you need nutritious food to grow and thrive, your plants need healthy soil to produce beautiful flowers, delicious vegetables, and strong roots.
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