Now the time to prepare soil

With 2011 just a few short months away, now is the time to start thinking about spring by preparing the soil.

According to the Petoskey News, growers should use their autumn downtime to take sample, which can then be assessed by an expert for approximately $15.

This will give them an idea of which additives the earth in their garden needs and help grower make a successful start to the year.

To take a sample, approximately 15 to 20 dirt segments should be taken from different areas of the garden and mixed together in a bowl, before a few scoops are sealed in a bag.

This should then be taken to a local master gardener programme, which should be willing to conduct tests on the earth.

"The most important thing you can do for your garden in the fall is get your soil tested," Master Gardener Volunteer Programme boss Cydney Steeb said.

"It’s a simple process and the benefits are many. The fall is a great time to add the recommended amendments, which allows the soil to marinate all winter long."

In other news, the Paper has revealed that a free gardening class is to take place in the Woodlands Township in Texas on October 30th.