In the subtropical climate of the Northern Rivers region soils vary widely from sandy coastal soils to rich volcanic loams further inland. Understanding your soil type, which plants thrive in particular environments, and how to balance and enrich the soil when necessary is the key to a healthy garden.
Know your soil type
Red volcanic soil is highly fertile and great for growing veggies and crops. Sandy soil drains well but requires additional organic matter and nutrients for plants to thrive. Clay based soil holds water well but can become compacted. This makes it difficult for roots to grow downward and outward, limiting access to nutrients and making plants weaker and more prone to drought or wind damage. Compacted clay also has fewer air pockets and can stunt root metabolism.
Once you know what type of soil you are working with you can make decisions about additives to maximise growing conditions. It is also good to test the pH of your soil to see if it requires more acid or alkaline to balance it.
Plant appropriately
Native plants like grevilleas and lomandras prefer free draining soils. Tropical fruit trees such as bananas, avocados and citrus thrive in well-drained, rich loam with ample organic matter. Vegetable gardens prefer crumbly, fertile soil with compost and good drainage.
Improve poor soil
If your garden has a strong clay component add gypsum, compost and mulch to improve soil structure and drainage. Sandy soils need compost, aged manure and mulch to enhance water retention and boost nutrients. Acidic soils are common in our region. Check your pH and add garden lime if needed.
It may be worth investing in some premium garden soil which is high in nutrients and provides essential microbial activity vital for a fertile garden.
Be generous with compost and mulch
Purchase some quality mushroom or manure compost. Green waste compost or well-rotted cow/chook manure can transform tired soil too.
Be wise with your water
A thick layer of mulch will reduce evaporation in hot months. A drip irrigation system or soaker hoses are a great way to get water to the roots without wastage.
Feed the soil, not just the plants
Pests and diseases don’t thrive in healthy soil. Healthy soil is rich in nutrients, microbes, and organic matter helps plants to grow vigorously. Robust plants can better resist and recover from attacks by pests and pathogens. Supplement your soil seaweed tonic, slow release fertilisers and worm castings.
Plateau Landscape Supplies is your landscape and garden superstore. We stock a wide range of products to balance your soil to enhance growing conditions.