Garden soil - Ask Extension
looking for the correct type of sand to add to our garden. I've seen many different replys about childrens sand, and others, we need it for better dr...
Knowledgebase
Garden soil #859502
Asked February 20, 2024, 2:13 PM EST
looking for the correct type of sand to add to our garden. I've seen many different replys about childrens sand, and others, we need it for better drainage as our soil is pretty dense. thanks
Fairfield County Ohio
Expert Response
Hi Marilyn,
I know it sounds counterintuitive, but adding sand to heavy clay soil doesn't improve drainage. The clay particles in the soil bind with the sand particles to create an even denser soil. The effect is similar to the way concrete is made, by combining gravel or sand with cement.
A better approach is to add compost, leaf mold or other organic matter to your soil each year to lighten the soil texture. The easiest way to do that is to just spread 3 or 4 inches of the organic matter on top of the soil and let the earthworms and microorganisms in the soil break it down and incorporate it. Fall is a great time to do this, as the organic matter will break down over the winter.
Since we're approaching spring, you can instead till or dig the organic matter into the soil once it's dry enough to be worked.
Best of luck to you!
I know it sounds counterintuitive, but adding sand to heavy clay soil doesn't improve drainage. The clay particles in the soil bind with the sand particles to create an even denser soil. The effect is similar to the way concrete is made, by combining gravel or sand with cement.
A better approach is to add compost, leaf mold or other organic matter to your soil each year to lighten the soil texture. The easiest way to do that is to just spread 3 or 4 inches of the organic matter on top of the soil and let the earthworms and microorganisms in the soil break it down and incorporate it. Fall is a great time to do this, as the organic matter will break down over the winter.
Since we're approaching spring, you can instead till or dig the organic matter into the soil once it's dry enough to be worked.
Best of luck to you!
