How to Fix Hard, Weedy Soil

Hard-packed clay soils do not provide adequate water drainage or nutrients necessary for vegetation such as grass, flowers and vegetables. While desirable types of vegetation struggle to survive in poor soil, weeds thrive and further deplete the soil of valuable nutrients. Amend hard, weedy soils to provide the well-draining, nutrient-rich foundation necessary for healthy plant growth.

Rototiller
Hoe
Compost, peat moss or well-rotted manure
Garden rake
Expanded shale or course sand

Instructions

- 1
  Remove all debris, rocks, sticks and weeds from the area.
- 2
  Till the soil to a depth of 12 inches. Use a hoe to break up large chunks of hard soil. Remove all rocks and sticks the tiller brought to the surface.
- 3
  Use a shovel to add a 2- to 4-inch layer of compost, peat moss, or well-rotted manure to the area. Use a garden rake or hoe to spread the organic material evenly over the area.
- 4
  Till the organic matter into the soil to a depth of 12 inches.
- 5
  Use a shovel to add a 3-inch layer of expanded shale or course sand to the area. Sand and shale aerate the soil, allowing for better drainage and oxygen absorption. Rake the shale or sand level.
- 6
  Till the shale or sand to a depth of 12 inches. Remove all debris that the tiller brings to the surface.
- 7
  Use a hoe or garden rake to level the soil.

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