Definition:
Soil amendments are materials which are worked into the soil to enhance the soil’s properties. Examples would include organic matter such as compost, manure, bone meal or leaf mold, as well as synthetic fertilizers.
There are several reasons soil amendments might be recommended for your garden or lawn.
- Often soil is low in organic matter, necessary for the structure, water retention and life of your soil.
- You might also add amendments to alter the soil's pH.
- Amendments are also excellent for lightening clay or rocky soil and adding substance to sandy soils.
Examples:
I always start a new garden by amending the soil with about 4 inches of organic matter, like compost, leaf mold or composted manure.
