Soil Type and Modification

The ideal soil is called "loam." It is made up of various mineral particle sizes ranging from fine clay to sand; not too sticky-gooey and not too sandy.

Jar testing for Soil Type

THE "FEEL TEST"

Sandy vs. Clay Soil

WHAT TO DO

Find out what you are working with. Use the method above for basic information, or get a soil test; they only cost about $25. The soil test will tell you what type of soil you have, the nutrient levels, and the pH.  Many reports will provide helpful recommendations based on your results. 

List of soil testing facilities in the SAWPA region:

Riverside Corona Resource Conservation District, Riverside (951) 683-7691, rcrcd.com

Waypoint Analytical, Inc., Anaheim (714) 282-8777, waypointanalytical.com

Test America, Inc., Irvine (949) 261-1022, testamericainc.com