How to Correct Compacted Soil in a New Subdivision

Developers remove the topsoil when preparing a new subdivision. They also use heavy equipment that compresses the soil and removes air pockets. If the new homeowner doesn't correct the compacted soil, he will likely notice that his lawn, gardens and trees fail to flourish. Loosening the soil is critical for aerating it and encouraging proper water drainage. Once the soil is no longer compacted, amend it with compost and mulch.

Rototiller
Hoe
Compost
Hardwood mulch
Organic matter
Post hole digger
Pea gravel
Landscape fabric

Instructions

- 1
  Use a rototiller to loosen the top 8 to 10 inches of soil. Loosen the soil to a depth of 18 to 24 inches in areas where you plan to plant a garden or trees.
- 2
  Dig up the soil with a hoe if the rototiller does not dig down deep enough.
- 3
  Incorporate compost, hardwood mulch and other organic matter into the soil. Hardwood mulch is especially helpful for trees because it can encourage a faster growth rate and healthier leaves, according to The Morton Arboretum. Use at least 1 to 3 inches of compost on top of aerated soil in an area in which you plan to install a new lawn or garden.
- 4
  Make a French drain for planting trees in compacted soil that drains poorly. Dig a hole about 18 inches deep and wide enough to accommodate the root ball. Most tree roots grow in the top 18 inches of soil. Use a post hole digger to dig deeper in this same hole, until you reach looser soil.
- 5
  Fill the hole with pea gravel until the top of the gravel is 18 inches below the surface. Cover the gravel with landscape fabric. Plant the tree and cover up the roots with three parts soil and one part compost.

Drainage Ideas for Around the Perimeter of the House

How to Amend a Sodic Clay Soil

Soil