Gardening Technique Unit Screen//v.1

Sandy soil contains a high proportion of sand. It can be identified by the characteristic grittiness when the soil is rubbed between the thumb and fingers. Sandy soil has large pore spaces, so water and air enter it easily; however, the soil dries out rapidly and it does not retain nutrients well. Sandy soil cultivates easily either dry or wet. It seldom puddles or becomes muddy or sticky, and seldom has erosion problems because water enters it immediately, so there is none to run off on the surface.

Managing sandy soil: Sandy soil must have both water and fertilizer applied lightly and frequently. Because it retains very little water, plants wilt quickly. This type of soil is often called droughty. A simple way to feed the garden is to use liquid fertilizers or a water-soluble fertilizer. These can be applied with a hose-end sprayer or a siphoning fertilizer injector. Fertilize once a month during the growing season. Improve sandy soil by adding organic matter, such as peat moss, compost, or manure, each year. Spread from 1 to 4 inches of organic material on the surface and turn it under every time you till the soil. The organic matter acts like a sponge, retaining water and nutrients. (For more information about organic amendments, see Organic Matter.) Drip irrigation systems are especially effective and useful in sandy soils. Use plants that are adapted to sandy soil (see Plants for Sandy Soil).

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