Autumn digging is like insurance for a tired summer resident. I did everything according to the rules now, and in the spring there will only be pleasant chores left. But if you give up, then in April you will have to deal with dense soil, weeds and an eternal lack of time.
The secret is not to simply turn over the layers of earth. It is important to help the soil prepare for the new season. Many people dig deep, break up the clods and leave a perfectly flat surface. But this is a big mistake.
Autumn digging rules:
Large clods are friends, not enemies
The earth is dug up using a shovel, but the clods are not broken. The ridged surface retains snow better, and the frost itself will loosen large blocks by spring.
Organics go straight to the ground
When digging, rotted manure or compost is evenly covered. Over the winter, fertilizers will saturate the soil, and by the planting season the land will become truly fertile.
Dry soil is the key to success
It is better to wait until the soil dries slightly after the rains. Digging in the dirt turns the soil into sticky clumps that will become rock-hard by spring.
Focus on the roots
During work, it is important to choose the rhizomes of perennial weeds. This is the main way to reduce the amount of weeding in the new season.
Common mistakes:
- Walking on dug up areas (compacts the soil);
- Applying fresh manure to root crops;
- Bare soil without mulch or green manure.
As a result, the need for deep digging disappears. Light loosening with a rake is enough: and the beds are ready for planting. The soil becomes airy, saturated with moisture and practically free of weeds. This approach really saves time and energy when every day counts in the spring.
