Soil health is the foundation of your garden.

Soil is described as a living ecosystem that hosts a large share of Earth's biodiversity, and the article outlines gradual practices such as adding organic matter, testing pH and nutrients, and avoiding aggressive tilling to maintain soil condition.

Soil health is central to a thriving garden. The article describes soil as a living ecosystem with nutrients, organic matter and billions of organisms. It cites a 2023 Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences estimate that soil hosts about 59% of all life. Soil condition influences water drainage, nutrient availability and the presence of harmful organisms. Key points about soil: - Soil contains nutrients, organic matter and billions of organisms and is reported to be home to about 59% of all life (2023 PNAS). - Soil organisms are described as helping control harmful organisms, decomposing organic matter into natural fertilizer, and aerating soil to improve drainage. - Soil structure matters: sandy soil drains quickly while heavy clay holds water, and both are discussed as being improvable with added organic matter. - The article describes improving soil by spreading 3–4 inches (8–10 cm) of compost, leaf mold or well‑rotted manure and gently working it in to 6–12 inches (15–30 cm), aiming for a lumpy texture rather than a fine powder. - Aggressive tilling is reported to harm microorganisms and beneficial insects, increase erosion, release carbon, and bring dormant weed seeds to the surface. - The piece notes checking soil pH and nutrient levels with home kits or through cooperative extension services, and it describes covering bare soil with 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) of undyed organic mulch to retain moisture and limit weed pressure. Summary: Healthy soil supports plant growth, biodiversity and stable moisture and nutrient cycles. The article frames soil care as a gradual process that emphasizes adding organic matter, testing pH and nutrients, avoiding aggressive tilling, and using mulch. Undetermined at this time.