How should I improve the condition of my soil and when?

This is a vitally important part of establishing a successful garden. The old adage of “Don’t put a R10.00 plant into a 10 cent hole” applies. Ideally one should spread out a 7cm layer of well rotted compost over the surface of the soil and dig this in. I prefer a coarse compost as this takes longer to break down in the soil so you get the benefit of it for a longer period. Manure is always a good addition provided it is good quality and well broken down. It has a high microbial activity which feeds the soil and sustains it for a long period. It is unfortunately not always readily available commercially. Too much manure that has not broken down well can burn plants, so take care how you use manures. Very clayey soils may be improved using agricultural lime or “clay buster”. Very sandy soils will benefit from an application of coarse compost, but due to the composition of these soils, regular reapplications are necessary. When planting trees and shrubs, preparation is essential. Dig a large, square planting pit, putting aside the good topsoil and throwing away any poor subsoil or rock. Backfill the hole with a good quality topsoil to which you have added one third by volume compost. Prior to planting is the best time to improve the soil, but for established gardens a side dressing of compost, dug into the soil will certainly help.

TIP : Gordon Stuart Landscaping stocks compost which can be sold by the bag or per cube to their clients.