In the meantime, I'm using the existing clay soil for the garden bed to minimize the cost of purchasing an abundance of new soil. Unfortunately clayey soil can be challenging for gardening. The clay particles lie flat like sheets and can compact really easily, making it difficult for delicate plant roots to break through the soil. This can minimize plant size and vigor. That being said, I'm going to attempt a few different strategies to transform the texture of the soil. An application of lime can soften the clay soil as it leaches through. Also, I'm using the leaf mulch that has been culturing near the Horticulture garage for the last year and a half (I wrote an earlier article on my leaf composter). It's full of all sorts of beneficial insects and rich organic matter. I'm excited to see the insects work through that clayey soil and search for the nitrogen rich turf on the underside of the clumps of earth. This action will improve the porosity and fertilization of the land. Additionally, a large application of compost will be topdressed over the entire area of the garden beds prior to planting.
The concept for the finalized design will be a prairie perennial border amass with ornamental grasses and bright summer blooming flowers paired with plants that have all season interest. It should be a very lively and inviting series of gardens when completed. Posters have been made that detail the project. There is a poster in the kiosk as well as on the bulletin board outside of the mens changing room. Have a look and feel free to direct feedback my way.
