How to loosen & improve compacted soil

[@bidaorioli1901]

This is great!! Thanks so much for making things easier for someone who has her first garden ever!

[@Gardenninja]

You’re welcome glad to help! Make sure you subscribe for even more garden design hints tips and hacks! Happy gardening. Lee

[@Gm-nx9je]

I loved that video. you have given me hope! I am going back out to carry on with building my new border. I was ready to give up! thank you

[@Gardenninja]

Thanks so much for reaching out. I’m glad the guides helped inspire you to carry on. Gardening is all about patience and being gentle. Have you checked out my blog where there are hundreds of additional step guys step guides? If not you can view it here. www.gardenninja.co.uk 🥷🌿 Happy gardening. Lee

[@aprillopezraffel4469]

I really appreciate the easy and quick way the Garden Ninja showed us how to garden without costing a lot with renting a rototiller or labor:)

[@Gardenninja]

Thanks April! I’m glad you’re enjoying my content! Make sure you subscribe for access to over 150 garden design hints tips and hacks. Happy gardening! Lee 🥷🤘🌿

[@cliffcarr3632]

Thanks for the video, I like it. Personally, if the ground is hard and compacted, I would let it get soaked 1st by a good rainy day or 2, then establish if the soils very clay (probably is) , and dig in as much rotted horse manure, compost, leaf mould, what you can get my hands on and some sharp sand and grit if needed. I saw this done by Geoff Hamilton on BBC, and it worked amazing.I rang a few stables and farms locally and helped me out. I used mostly rotted stuff. I found the best time to do this work is in the beginning of Autumn in the UK, then the Winter can do the work on it. Once that job was done I collected all my veg peelings, cardboard, egg shells, and buried them in the same area when I had about a bucket full and covered with soil, this will go to dark compost in weeks, just leave it, and the worms will increase in numbers slowly and after a year or so your soil will be excellent rich and fertile, patience required though. I also dug in some waste coffee grounds the big coffee shops they give it to you gladly, just ask. My garden soil was once, hard, clay, sandy and gravel at about a foots depth, now, its dark, fertile, healthy and very good for growing my dahlias.Cheers.

[@Gardenninja]

Great additional tips Cliff. Geoff Hamilton was a really great ‘can do’ gardener. He made gardening very accessible! The more organic matter you can incorporate into compacted soil the better. Little and often works well and a winter frost will help with this if working in matter in Autumn. The soil I was working on was actually mainly sandy. Which is odd as usually that’s quite tough to compact. However after years of neglect it was like concrete. Adding the matter after rain is a good tip as well. However if you’re desperate to get started the grass clipping option is full of water as it breaks down and can help soften the soil. Also it’s worthwhile noting that whilst it’s nice to think ‘I’ll fix all my compacted soil’ sometimes you need to think of fixing the immediate problem first. So take a section of the border first rather than trying to do this everywhere in your garden. It can also feel less overwhelming for the gardener. Thanks for the additional tips though. That’s really helpful! We should always be trying to recycle, reduce or reuse and all these ideas promote that! Happy Gardening Cliff!

[@AlabanzasyAdoración7]

can it be goat, cow or han (chicken) manure? or it has to be exactly horse's?

[@saryarohit2925]

Hello, Garden Ninja. It's Sarya from Trinidad, again 😄. Listen, we have a terrible dry season here (low precipitation, high heat, rationed water supply) and the soil in my plant pots have become so compacted as a result. I decided to use an eating fork in the same manner that you did as most of my plants are in containers of some sort 😊! I hope this helps get the water where it really needs to be. Thanks for the great ideas of reusing the lawn cuttings and another wonderful video. Best! 💐

[@Gardenninja]

If you’re in a drought with limited water you can use vegetable peelings as a temporary mulch for pots. Such as potatoes or carrot peelings even cut grass clippings. They will release small amounts moisture and help protect the plant if you can’t water it. Hope that it helps!

[@saryarohit2925]

@@Gardenninja Thank you! I appreciate this reply so much!

[@cecespark7251]

Very helpful and budget friendly way to deal with compacted soil. My plot is on slight incline and the bottom part is almost unbreakable. Very frustrating 😡. Your video showed me exactly what it needed. Thanks

[@Gardenninja]

Cheers Cece. Glad it’s been helpful and good luck with your soil improvement! My latest vlog has even more tips here in soil improvement. Happy Gardening. Lee kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnm6k2NjndOtiJo

[@TallulahFoxxx]

Garden Ninja Ltd I have a wee question ☺️🤓 I’ve just started getting into gardening. I have a flower bed area: 9.8ft long by 4.3ft wide, that is very heavy clay soil, and very wet (I’m in Scotland so it’s unsurprising haha). At the moment, it’s compacted. I’m going to use your tips of course! ☺️ My question is: how long should I wait after implementing the tips for improving the soil (and drainage), to start putting plants in there? 🤔 I have a lovely established Weigela Bristol Ruby on the other side of my garden that flourished in the clay soil on that side, so purchased a small potted one (9cm) that I plan on putting in the spot I just mentioned. Is there a certain amount of time I should wait before I plant there, or can I pop things right in? 🤔 (Sorry if this is obvious, I’m completely new to gardening haha!) thanks xx

[@Subwo0f3r]

I know it's four years late and I just searched this video but thank you for the tips. I just started gardening and these are useful information I can apply.

[@Gardenninja]

You’re welcome! Glad the tips are helpful. Make sure you subscribe for even more! Happy gardening! Lee 🥷🌿

[@NZSaskia]

A huge revelation! Thanks. I am now using your technique. As well as mixing grass clippings and compost as mulch, over wetted newspaper for weed matting.

[@Gardenninja]

Fantastic!! Glad its of help! Happy Gardening. Lee

[@bargainboymakem1]

This has been my first year gardening and damn it I wish I'd seen this post at the start of summer!! I binned so much grass that I could've used to loosen up my heavy soil. Roll on next year. Thanks for the tips Mr Ninja. I loved your other vid on grasses. So well presented matey. Guess it's time to subscribe. ;)

[@Gardenninja]

You’re welcome Dave. Thanks for the feedback. You’ll be breaking up that compacted ground in no time by incorporating a mix of cuttings and compost. Adding additional nitrogen and moisture to help break it up. Grasses are amazing. I add them to most designs. More vids to come and thanks again for the kind words! Happy Gardening. Lee

[@bargainboymakem1]

@@Gardenninja Thanks Lee. I started a college course RHS level 2 in Principles of Gardening last month. Loving it and love getting even more inspiration and tips from people such as yourself. The garden was a blank, unloved canvass at the start of the year, it's coming together though. I ploughed through a load more of your posts last night and will continue to over the next few weeks. All the best sir.

[@Gardenninja]

That’s great to hear Dave. Welcome to the world of gardening!! The RHS courses are really good and quite addictive once you get started. All the best. Lee

[@ikigai47]

lol. right on. Interesting to see different people's methods. I just smash it to hell with a pick axe and use a shovel to make sure I'm a certain depth. If I have gypsum I'll pour some in, along with Azomite, compost, perlite and all purpose fertilizer. Mix well. There is no wrong way as long as you're giving the roots easy travel / oxygen and supplying all the nutrients. But I like the addition of grass clippings, I may do that next time if I have a surplus that wasn't reserved for composting

[@carolinafine8050]

This is awesome. Thanks for taking the time to make this video

[@Gardenninja]

You’re welcome Carolina! Thanks for watching. 🥷🌿🤘 Lee

[@richyp7126]

Thanks Lee! Will give that a go

[@CarlosCastillo-zf5fb]

Steve-O gardening tips

[@Gardenninja]

Carlos Castillo 😂

[@amycuaresma]

😂😂😂😂😅😅😅🤣🤣🤣😂😅💚💙💙💜🧡👍🤣🤣😂👍👍

[@amycuaresma]

A much younger and more handsome version

[@Gardenninja]

Stop stop!! My mohawk will blush!! ☺️🥷🌿

[@amycuaresma]

@@Gardenninja 💙❤️🧡💚💜😅😂 I'd watch that

[@jimbo9313]

I did this to a plant the other day and BOOM it’s going strong!

[@Gardenninja]

Bam!! And the compaction is gone!! Great to hear. Happy gardening. 🥷🌿🤘

[@Animalfarm4481]

I live on a slope. My husband built a shop, changing the rain runoff from our yard-my whole yard is hard as a rock and when it rains, sand is left everywhere 😩 I used to have grass, but now I just have clay-rock and sand - my topsoil is gone! Every time I add some, it washes away with the rain.

[@paulacreed8631]

I thought that my soil might be compacted until I watched you trying to shove that pitchfork in, lol. Turns out my soil is fine!

[@Gardenninja]

Yes it was horrendously compacted. Now it’s far easier to work with. I’ve been mulching it’s every September for two years and it’s almost perfect!! Happy gardening. Lee

[@josenotmarichan]

compacted soil feels like rock haha

[@Grifbob1]

Thank you! Simple and easy!! Off to work in the yard.

[@kirstygibbons]

This is brilliant mate

[@Gardenninja]

Thanks Kirsty! Happy gardening. Lee 🥷🌿

[@rondamon8004]

Great idea, its hard but not impossible....I never thought of the use os grass clippings...!!!!

[@Gardenninja]

Hey Ron. Glad it’s helpful for you. It will over time help loosen and aerate compacted soil. Happy Gardening! Lee

[@shelster]

We shouldn't have been throwing our grass clippings! Thanks for the tips!

[@ddom1621]

Thanks to having three dogs, my garden soil was compacted, with a rock hard surface crust, thin but hardened layer thatch, partially dead blackened moss and some live green. The existing grass was sparse and patchy. I did the following: 1. Apply moss killer and leave for about 10 days; 2. Aerate the ground with a fork Then 10 days later >>> 3. Cut the existing grass as short as possible 4. Rake to scrape away any surface moss / thatch / weak or dead existing grass as best as I could 5. Dig out with a fork to expose clumps of hardened clay soil (the garden looked like a ploughed field at this stage) 6. Use the lawn mower to run over the soil to break up any hardened lumps (yes I know!) 7. Sprinkle the broken up soil collected in the lawn mower back over the ground 8. Run over with a rake again to roughly level off the ground 9. Apply a bag of sharp sand and sprinkle over 10. Apply a couple bags of compost and sprinkle over 11. Sprinkle new grass seeds over the layer of compost (ignoring the 'wait for 8 weeks before planting grass seeds instruction on the moss killer) 12. Apply some new top soil over the grass seeds 13. Stamp in over the top soil by foot to press the grass seeds in as best I could 14. Wait for the rain and warmer weather.

[@saryarohit2925]

Jezus Christ! You gotta update us! Did this work?

[@MarcGray1990]

glad you managed to sneak the new motor in at the start. good tip and It works!!

[@Gardenninja]

Hahaha always promoting the Fiorino! Especially as no one seems to be able to say it!

[@MarcGray1990]

well as mine is the Peugeot variety but we all know they are exactly the same really ill keep to calling mine the bipper haha!

[@Gardenninja]

I wanted a bipper mainly because the names so hysterical and easier than 'Fiorino' but yes you're right they are all the same thing really! It's getting sign written on Friday, I'll release some pics when it is done! :-)

[@MarcGray1990]

the ninja fiat!! I shall look forward to seeing the pics! mine is very plain Jane. no writing on it at all apart from a "French whip" and "OCD CLEAN" vinyl sticker on the back haha

[@folkerson]

@@Gardenninja I have a quick question. I'm trying to loosen up soil around a plant. Any suggestions? I know it's trickier but Im having issues with my plants and I can't move them anywhere else. Any help would be much appreciated!

[@TallulahFoxxx]

Wee question ☺️🤓 I’ve just started getting into gardening. I have a flower bed area: 9.8ft long by 4.3ft wide, that is very heavy clay soil, and very wet (I’m in Scotland so it’s unsurprising haha). At the moment, it’s compacted. I’m going to use your tips of course! ☺️ My question is: how long should I wait after implementing the tips for improving the soil (and drainage), to start putting plants in there? 🤔 I have a lovely established Weigela Bristol Ruby on the other side of my garden that flourished in the clay soil on that side, so purchased a small potted one (9cm) that I plan on putting in the spot I just mentioned. Is there a certain amount of time I should wait before I plant there, or can I pop things right in? 🤔 (Sorry if this is obvious, I’m completely new to gardening haha!) thanks xx

[@Gardenninja]

Hi Teresa. Thanks for your question. Ideally I’d wait a few weeks. You want the organic matter and air to get in and start to break down really. That said if your pushed for time popping then in straight away wouldn’t harm them but they’re not going to get the most benefit. The more organic matter you can add to heavy clay soil the better to help aerate it and break it up. Hope that helps. Happy Gardening. Lee

[@TallulahFoxxx]

Garden Ninja Ltd Awesome! 🤓💕 Sorry to be a pest but I have another wee question haha (I’m a total newbie so I have a billion!). Since I live in Scotland, I have a flower bed that is actually gley/gleysol. It’s blue-grey almost right under the surface 🤔 I cannot believe no one else has asked this question online because I can’t find a single lay-person Q&A about it 😂😭🤦🏼‍♀️ Can gley be improved at all without digging in drains/trenches? I’ve dug in a LOT (a full large compost bin full) of home made compost, Vitax Clay Breaker and then a good few inches of top soil. I’m not expecting miracles overnight but I know just planting things, whether they thrive long or not, generally improves the soil BUT do you think I’ll have any success or is it a sinking ship? 🤓 Sorry for such a long winded question but I really cannot find a single person trying to garden with gley! 😂😭🤦🏼‍♀️ xx PS. Thanks for being such a big help. I love your vids!

[@Gardenninja]

Great Question Teresa and it’s an interesting point. I’ll make sure I update my blog article on soil to help other users. Gley soil is incredibly compacted and is usually waterlogged causing anaerobic conditions. Ie lacked of oxygen. For gley soil you’re right to add organic matter and it will help though it takes time. Trenches are drains are best if planting lots of deep rotted specimens such as trees. The alternative is to work with plants that don’t mind wet and clay soil conditions. For example birch will grow quite happily along with willow in terms of trees. Most shrubs and plants don’t root that far down so the top dressings and adding of compost will really help. Basically it’s a long wait but you’re doing the right thing. Gley is really common in Scotland. I’ve never been able to take a picture of it though would you be able to send me one that I could use on my site? All the best and keep going! Lee

[@TallulahFoxxx]

Garden Ninja Ltd Aww thank you so much! You’ve been such a help! 😁 And oh tell me about it - my front garden is north facing AND gley, and I live in a valley...in the lowlands. I’m surprised we’ve not grown gills, the rainfall that drains down to us 😂😭 We had a torrential downpour yesterday and due more until Friday but when it’s dry I’ll try and get a decent photo for you 🤓☺️ (I’m putting edging in anyway and taking an inch off round the side, so I’ll be able to dig into it without disturbing the flowerbeds). Gach dùrachd! (All the best) 🌸💕🌱

[@noorsidaabdullah7635]

Hello garden ninja! Thank you for the helpful sharing. May I know what can be a substitute to grass cutting if its ain't available? Can we only use compost?

[@Gardenninja]

Hi Noor. Thanks for your message. You can use any shredded green garden waste. So if you have herbaceous clippings you can use that or compost. Happy gardening! Lee 🥷🌿

[@homasafavi2775]

Hi my garden one month ago had full of baby grubs I bought powder from Bunnings and I think all died but can I plant some veggies in this soil please tell me what to do. I bought new soil and compost but I don’t know when I add the new soil to my garden, before plant them? How many days?Or the same day I plant veggies. If add new soil in my old soil without planting all nutrients from soil doesn’t wash by rain?

[@Gardenninja]

Hi Homa. You can plant straight into soil or compost without waiting. I’d be more concerned about using powder to remove grubs and then planting into this. As thoughtful gardeners we need to try and consider more cultural control methods like manually removing pests, encouraging predators of the pests etc rather than chemical Formulars which kill indiscriminately and can damage wildlife. Good luck with your gardening. Lee 🥷🌿🤘

[@kikinnit]

Good tips!

[@Gardenninja]

Thanks Pat! Happy Gardening Lee

[@TheSuperHopeless]

Thanks for the video its really helpful!

[@Gardenninja]

Thanks Maria! Happy Gardening. Lee

[@tishao-j277]

Thank you for your channel. The advice is great. Going over your old videos, Lee. During this period of lockdown I now finally have a chance to start planting up borders and I’m a newbie. So, what can I use instead of grass as I don’t have a lawn at all? I have well rotted horse manure (from local stables), garden compost and farmyard manure in separate bags, I also have blood and bone meal too but not a clue on how to use any of them. My front garden border has been badly neglected for years and is slightly compacted but not hugely so and it’s an east-facing garden that has one tree and lots of shrubs. Would like to plant perennial flowers in-between but not sure whether to improve the soil condition before I start or do it as I go along in the holes dug out for the flowers then mulch all around afterwards!!! Help! This is like learning a new language!

[@Gardenninja]

Hi Tisha. It’s worth working on improving the soil first. As anything new you plant may struggle if not. Rotted horse manure is fine to use as a mulch or dig into compacted borders. Save your blood fish and bone for when your plants are in. The biggest mistake people make is over feeding plants. If the soils healthy most plants don’t need any feed other than maybe vegetables. I’d I were you if work on my soil then research plants for your aspect and preference you have. Sounds like you’re on the way to an amazing new garden. Happy gardening! Lee

[@tishao-j277]

Garden Ninja Ltd - Thanks Lee. You’re a breath if fresh air. Hope you get your own TV channel soon. Will follow your advice! Many thanks again. Stay safe during the lockdown

[@Gardenninja]

Thanks Tisha. Well let’s see what the future holds! 😜 Happy Gardening. Lee

[@MrMkapusta]

Never thought of grass clippings...thanks. by the way your hair rocks!

[@Gardenninja]

Thanks Cro Boy! 😊

[@adeeohdoublegeeable]

Good info thanks gardening steve-o

[@dyeydyey8283]

Hi, what's the brand of your fork used in this vid? seems very sturdy..

[@Gardenninja]

Hi Dyey. It’s an old Wilkinson Sword fork. I’ve had it decades! Really reliable. 🥷🌿🤘

[@dyeydyey8283]

@@Gardenninja great! many thanks!

[@adnantariq3346]

"HEEEYAH!!!!" thank you 😁

[@liljiga22]

Can I use my grass clippings right away or do I have to le them sit for a week before using them?

[@Gardenninja]

Hi. You can use them straight away then the moisture gets added to the soil. You don’t want to totally smother the soil though. So don’t add more than an inch at any one time. Hope that helps. Happy gardening 🥷🌿

[@liljiga22]

@@Gardenninja hello! Understood! Thank you so much! :)

[@Gardenninja]

You’re welcome! 🥷🌿

[@stellatheadventurer5010]

can I use mulch if I don't have grass cutting with compost mix?

[@Gardenninja]

Yes of course you can. Any organic matter like leaf mould, compost, well rotten manure. Etc Happy gardening! Lee 🥷🌿🤘

[@tawfikbarakat8751]

What is the best time in year to do this process?

[@Gardenninja]

Early spring is the best time. Always avoid doing any soil prep in winter or when it’s frozen as you just damage the soil structure. Happy gardening! Lee 🥷🌿🤘

[@zasr7171]

Thank you , that was nicely explained and you showed us a simple and easy way ! How soon after can we start to plant ?

[@Gardenninja]

Thanks! As soon as you can easily dig a hole for your plant by without snapping your spade or having to let out a scream to lift the soil then it’s good to go! The more organic matter you can dig in the better. Happy gardening. Lee

[@Gardenninja]

Great point Tig. Usually takes a few weeks for the soil to start to soften once the grass and compost settles/beds in. Which is the same time that all those beneficial organisms also settle and thrive with their new moisture nitrogen rich material!! 👍 Happy Gardening! Lee

[@richyp7126]

Hi. I have a garden that has been ridden over by our builders’ diggers about a thousand times. I can’t even get a fork in its so hard. Any tips?

[@Gardenninja]

Hi Richy. Try giving it a soak first with a slow sprinkler and then use a bar or pick to break the top layer first. Happy gardening. 🥷🌿🤘

[@captainso]

Hi mate! The soil near my fence is rock solid and it contains rocks and cement stuck together so will this technique help if i just smash the fement into crumbs. . Plus i am afraid if i dig deeper the neighbours fence will loosen up. I want to grow plants there

[@Gardenninja]

Hmm I’d be hesitant of smashing it up if it’s supporting a fence. Can you not build up with a raised bed instead? Lee

[@captainso]

@@Gardenninja No I cant it will cost me alot for the soil

[@captainso]

@@Gardenninja However, regardless of the rocks and cement there is still a rose plant growing

[@yoriichi3347]

Hi may i ask if you recommend to compact the soil in Air Pruning Pot?.

[@Gardenninja]

Hi. I’d never recommending compacting soil too much. You want it to be consolidated but not compacted. Usually firming in with your hands is sufficient. Hope that helps. Lee 🥷🌿

[@yoriichi3347]

@@Gardenninja thank you so much 😁

[@patrickturnbull8811]

Well done Lee - even idiot gardeners like me now have a fighting chance of loosening compacted soil! Definitely going to give this a go...

[@Gardenninja]

Thanks Patrick! I'm glad the guide is helpful! Make sure you checkout my other gardening guides to take you from novice to pro! 🥷🌿🐶

[@Jane_1776]

what about in my flower garden where i already have some perennials? how can I soften the soil around them without damaging them?

[@taxusbaccata6332]

I am trying to decompact almost solid subsoil naturally. Getting the microbiology of the soil going with decomposition material and plant root exudates seems to be suggested by soil scientists. The fungal elements coalesce the soil particles and the roots follow. What do feel about using native plants to decompact the soil eg. Alder tree, Dock species, Dandelion, Bramble? I have noticed the root systems of these plants seem to infiltrate amazing well through compacted soil. I realise that may not suit most formal gardens. Thanks Ninja.

[@Gardenninja]

Hey Taxus. Great to hear from yew! 😜 What am interesting question. Yes you could use native plants to work their magic on the soil. It’s probably far slower. You could even use a mulch alongside them to help speed it up or just go with more Ornamental specimens such as Bloody Dock and other tap rooted plants like you say. Do let me know how you get on!! Happy gardening. Lee

[@horohorosrin]

Okay, maybe a dumb question, but after you've loosened soil and planted in it, do you have to continue amending it to avoid compaction again, or do plants sort of help with that?

[@Gardenninja]

You’re always going to need to help feed and supply your soil with goodness when you plant into it. Don’t forget. Soil is a living organism. I tend to mulch every few years. I avoid over working the soil or compacting the ground too were possible. Once you’ve got your soil into a decent condition just top it up every now and then with a good mulch every few years. Happy Gardening! Lee

[@taxusbaccata6332]

If the causes of compact do not recur then you should not need to do so. No heavy machinery or animal/human traffic and no killing of the soil biology with concentrated fertilisers and general biology toxins such as herbicides.

[@masterwilliamstudios]

Thanks! What can you do when it's so compacted that a fork won't dig into it? Eg from cars parking

[@Gardenninja]

I’m afraid in that case it’s using a pick to break it up. As lots of organic matter and water. It will break you however. Good luck!!

[@hosoiarchives4858]

Jackhammer. Been there done that

[@DarrenGulliver]

Hi Garden Ninja, good tips thank you, wish I knew about the old grass before the last October cut and put in garden recycling to be collected. I killed off the grass on purpose as I was going to put artificial grass down. Changed my mind and now putting phlox in that area instead, what can I use instead of grass? Front and back garden are low maintenance so don’t have much in the way of old plants to use. Have compost and manure will that help?

[@Gardenninja]

Hi David. I’d definitely avoid artificial grass. If you haven’t already ready my blog article for it then check out my blog or google artificial grass garden ninja. It’s a really bad idea for most gardens. It traps dirt, heats up, makes the soil sweat and also cannot be recycled at present. There plenty of other materials far better to use. You could create a gravel garden or use porous paving or even go for compacted grit as a cheaper option. Why not try a wild flower meadow. Then you only cut it once if twice a year! Hope that helps. Lee

[@mayaayusowood7773]

great video! I was wondering, if the grass adds nitrogen, could I mix in some used ground coffee instead? Thank you!

[@higherresolution3511]

I found soaking the area for half an hour with a hose then it turns earthcrete into damp soil. And that’s with a new build sited on an old quarry!!

[@Gardenninja]

Hey! Whilst that does work it’s an incredible waste of water. Second to that it doesn’t help aerate or improve the soils texture as it simply dried back out again. Adding organic matter as a mulch in layers is far more environmentally sound and less hard work! Happy gardening. Lee 🥷🌿🤘

[@paquefeal2385]

Garden Ninja, my soil is clay and in my tropical area it is most of the time muddy ( water stays in). So I'll try your method. thanks for sharing.

[@Gardenninja]

Pâque Feal adding organic matter, grass clippings and aerating should help resolve some of the issues you’re facing! Let me know how you get on. Lee

[@ChefMarkyMarkz]

This dude's awesome

[@Gardenninja]

Thanks Mark! What a nice compliment! :-)

[@cloggysaint]

Nice one.

[@darrengerman5761]

My soil is that solid I cannot get a fork into it. Any tips would be appreciated

[@Gardenninja]

Hi Darren. I feel you. I’ve had that kind of sooo. Best thing to to do is soak it. Each day for a couple of days then use a pick or bar to literally break up that surface cap. It’s a case of chipping away and soaking to help loosen the soil. Then start to add your organic materials. Hope that helps. Happy gardening! Lee

[@darrengerman5761]

@@Gardenninja thanks, it's a large area around 25ft/30ftx 12ft that needs re-turfing. No turf on it as it's the last part of my garden make over, but its had since winter, plenty time to harden up and grow a forest of weeds lol. So my job at the moment is pulling weeds out with the hope of loosening the soil and preparing it for some too soil followed by new turf. I thought about wetting it last night and now you have mentioned it, I will give it a go. Thanks appreciated.

[@mariaw1258]

What happens if the lawn also has weeds? Do you still use it?

[@Gardenninja]

Maria W great question! If the weeds have flowered or are setting seed then no. You don’t want to spread clippings full of weeds around your border. However if it’s just foliage off young weeds that haven’t flowered you should be fine. Hope that helps. Happy Gardening. Lee

[@RW-fg2bf]

How do you tell what type of soil you have? Ours is very orange / red. It’s crumbly and can form lumps that are easily broken down in your hands or with a shovel or rake.

[@SOSAYALLOFME]

Would this work on compact compost, I have a rhododendron that is stuck in the pot with the compost so hard I can't use a spade on it. I have added fresh compost and soaked in water but it has not helped.

[@Gardenninja]

Hey So Say, you’re probably better lifting and replenishing this pot bound plant. The issue with container shrubs is that after a year or two they’ve pretty much used up all the nutrition so need feeding and mulching each year for best displays. I’d recommend lifting it. Teasing out and trimming the roots. Removing as much old compost as possible then repotting with fresh. It maybe an effort but will be well worth the results. Hope that helps! Lee

[@SOSAYALLOFME]

@@Gardenninja Thank you so much, I'll definitely follow your advice. 👍

[@strokerace4765]

I am starting a new “ghetto garden” in Georgia, the native ground is hard as concrete!

[@Milkyfilms0000]

Can I mix it straight after they dry and begin planting?

[@Gardenninja]

Yes, the grass will break down and add nitrogen to the soil. Just be careful not to add too much so it turns slushy. Little and often works well and grass clippings can be used as a thin mulch on top of soil so they break down and add nutrients and moisture. All the best. Lee

[@terminator1716]

In this way you're wrong. To do the job easily, we do better if we water hugely the hard soil successively two days but after watering it's necessarily to cover using hay or straw or something else . The third day the fork enter in the soil easily and the work is so pleasant.

[@Gardenninja]

Hey justin wise thanks for the alternative version for viewers. I’ve never tried that. I’m just showing what I’ve always done here in the UK with my plant knowledge but will defo give your version a trial and let you know. All the best and happy gardening! Lee

[@lishabell8103]

Thank you!

[@Ghryst]

im going to need a steam-roller with spikes on it to penetrate the ground and aerate my lawn :/ its almost rock solid any suggestions on how to do it without destroying the existing lawn??

[@Gardenninja]

Wait for it to rain and then try a sharp fork first. Or soak it with a hose if not. It’s a pain and will take ages but it’s probably the best way. Wiggle it back and forward. Top dress with some sand and compost. You can rent hollow time aerators but depends on how ‘solid’ your lawn is! Hope that helps. Good luck! Lee

[@Ghryst]

@@Gardenninja ... might need to get a big drill, it is damn hard

[@tonytomlin5674]

​@@Gardenninja Lee, I've got similar hard clay soil lawn. I've tried a manual tine tool & it just won't go through the concrete - like soil. Would a machine with spikes (not hollow tines) at least break it up a little for me to get some nutrients in? (I've heard some think it just compacts the clay more in between the spike holes!?). Cheers Tony

[@Gardenninja]

tony tomlin have you tried a crow bar or pick? I’ve used those in the past to get it started. It may further compact it but once you get started and adding organic matter it will only get better. Soaking it as well before working on it helps. Maybe a messy job but you’ll get there. Keep going!

[@tonytomlin5674]

@@Gardenninja Thanks Lee, I will indeed keep going.

[@whysguy1340]

Maybe someone asked this already but, is it bad to remove that many feeder roots from a tree that size?

[@Gardenninja]

Hi Whys. Good question! It depend so the size of the tree but a substantial tree will be fine. Opening up the soil structure when the soil is so compacted will aid the tree more than damage it given the new access to moisture and nutrients. So it’s win win. Happy gardening. Lee 🥷🌿

[@paulhann3288]

I cannot even get a fork into the ground, so what do you suggest sir?

[@Gardenninja]

Unfortunately it’s crow bar or time to crack out a iron pick. If you wait until it’s rained or soak the area first. Get the bar in. Wiggle it around and make as much disturbance as you can. It’s hard work as I’ve done it myself. Then just baby steps in adding matter. Let it breath for a few days. Work it over dampen. Repeat. Hope that helps. Lee

[@paulhann3288]

@@Gardenninja Hi there, I think I will buy a mattock, soak the ground and then try again!

[@pokemonone5630]

Cool hairstyles. Subscribed right away 🤪

[@Gardenninja]

Pokemon One thanks! Great to have you as a ninja! Happy gardening. Lee

[@daxapanchal9959]

How do you losses very clay ground?

[@Gardenninja]

It’s the same process Daxa. For very hard ground try a pick axe first but adding the organic matter and grass clippings is the way to go. It will take time but it does work! Happy Gardening! Lee

[@whysguy1340]

You could try Gypsum it is inexpensive. There must be other product that work faster than Gypsum but I'm guessing more expensive.

[@popeyeyankee5477]

Why not use a tiller to loosen the soil?

[@Gardenninja]

Hey Popeye. In some cases like this even a tiller won’t break the soil cap. They just bounce off. Tillers only work on partially compacted soil. Happy Gardening! Lee

[@MikeHunt-lz2hq]

So nitrogen loosens up soil does it . It might be a healthy addition to your soil but I don't think it'll do anything to tightly compacted soil

[@Gardenninja]

Hi Mike. Thanks for the comment and your right nitrogen itself won’t loosen soil. The point I’m trying to make is adding that green organic matter - high in nitrogen- to compacted soil will help engage all sorts of microbes that in turn encourage worms and soil life that helps aerate the soil. Adding air, nutrients and moisture. All which helps improve soil texture/structure. Thanks for allowing me to clarify! Happy gardening. Lee 🥷🌿

[@devbachu7072]

Great digvup add lume an all the grass compost etc

[@HollyPrints]

What if you can even get the fork in the ground?

[@Gardenninja]

Holly Maxwell then you’ll need a pick and failing that a digger I’m afraid. Most soil is workable to some degree. Once you’ve got through that surface cap it gets easier with organic matter being dug in.

[@mayonnaisequeen1513]

The soil you dug there compared to mine looks so much less compacted, my soil is impossible to separate as it has a high clay content

[@Gardenninja]

I’d you’re soil is heavy clay then a pick can help initially break it up. Adding organic matter like compost and grass will help loosen it over time. Very few things are impossible!! Good luck! Lee

[@mayonnaisequeen1513]

@@Gardenninja thank youu, thats super helpful, i studied horticulture for a while but funnily enough they never showed us how to deal with difficult soil 🙃

[@makhtar6769]

how do i do this for a container plant which is pretty big to lift?

[@Gardenninja]

Now that's a very good question. In a limited space you can use a dibber or a large screwdriver to help add some aeration holes and carefully loosen the soil without too much damage to the roots of the plants within it. Taking off as much of the surface cap as possible by hand with a small trowel and then a heavy mulch of fresh compost can help. Watering the compacted area thoroughly before and after will make it much easier to work with. Hope that helps! Lee Garden Ninja

[@makhtar6769]

thanks, is their any benefit to adding sand? the containers are holding figs tress and i have 5 in a 50litre container each.

[@Gardenninja]

Wow 5 in a 50lt container! Gosh that sounds like a lot, I'm guessing they are small fig saplings? You'd only want to add sand if you wanted to make the growing medium more free draining. Given its a container I doubt you would. Sand also has zero nutritional benefit for plants, it's more the soil texture it affects. Organic matter such as compost is your best bet.

[@makhtar6769]

1 plant per the container, they doing well, i forked our the top about 4 inches and watered heavy the plant has shot upward immediately, ;-) so far each tree is about 5-6 foot heigh.

[@Jamesjoonya]

Good video but I could barely hear you over the wind sounds.

[@Blackoutfor10days]

I don't know why my pot soil is getting harder.

[@Gardenninja]

Hi Black. Maybe it’s got a surface cap. Especially if it’s compost and it’s basically dried out and had all the nutrients taken from it. Compost doesn’t last like soil as it’s only a soil improver really. Maybe replace. Happy gardening! Lee 🥷🌿🤘

[@kingjames4886]

grow potatoes. old farmers tip for compact crap soil. not sure why.

[@Gardenninja]

As the potatoes help break up soil. However if you can’t get them in the soil in the first place then you may need to add some organic matter first!! I’m guessing farmers would have the upper hand of petrol powered machinery too! Thanks for the tip James! Happy Gardening. Lee

[@MuttonChops24]

Failed step 1. My compacted dirt bent the forks

[@Gardenninja]

Hi Muttonchops. If you’re grounds that solid may I recommend a crowbar first to at least break the surface cap. Happy gardening. Lee 🥷🌿

[@bbifanai9384]

👍

[@skessaruddin962]

Nice hair

[@Gardenninja]

SK ESSAR UDDIN thanks it’s all my own! 😜🤘👌

[@stevesugulas9941]

Whats with the hair? Can you put some hay on it to make it all good? Thanks!

[@Gardenninja]

Nah I’m all good with my look thanks!! Happy Gardening! Lee

[@taxusbaccata6332]

Don't forget to add hair and nail clippings to the compost pile! Alternatively leave your hair out in early spring for birds to use as nesting material :D

[@Gardenninja]

Great tip Taxus. I’ve left hair from Barry when he’s been stripped up at the top of the garden for birds to use for nests! Reuse, reduce and recycle. ♻️ happy gardening! Lee

[@CCCC-tq8yo]

Bloody hell lol

[@bryantchan6168]

first !!!

[@Gardenninja]

Congrats Bryant!

[@hesterprim200]

I see your face in my nightmares. Please help me.

[@Gardenninja]

😂 You need to spend more time in your garden. Happy sleeping! 🥷🌿

[@ryzlot]

Terribe sound - second rate production JR

[@failedfishermanBC]

Pathetic comment.

[@jcokersams]

Really? Didn't your momma teach you that if you don't have anything nice to say then you shouldn't say anything at all?

[@Gardenninja]

🙏🏻 😇

[@cynthiacisneros1694]

Thank you❣️