Helping Sandy Soil for Vegetables

Incorporate Organic Matter

• Adding organic matter such as compost or aged manure to the soil before planting it, at a ratio of 3 cubic yards per 1,000 square feet, is a great way to start the process of improving sandy soil. To accomplish this, remove all the weeds or grass from the top of the soil, spread an inch of organic matter on top and work this into the soil by using a shovel to turn the soil by hand or by using a roto-tiller to incorporate the organic matter into the sand.

Top Dress the Soil

• The next step to improving sandy soil is to top dress the area around the plants with 3 inches of organic matter or mulch after the vegetables are in place. Spread mulch or compost around the transplants as soon as they are watered in, but make sure not to pile it around their stems. Wait to apply compost or mulch to vegetables you are growing from seed until they are easy to see, so you do not accidently cover the area where the seed is. Too much mulch or soil on top of seeds prevents them from growing. Continue to apply the mulch or compost once a year, unless you garden year-round. If you do, apply the mulch or compost every time you plant a new crop of vegetables.

Adjust Moisture Levels

• Sandy soil has a reputation of drying out quickly. Even though mulch or compost spread on top of the soil helps retain moisture, it is still necessary to water because vegetables need water to thrive. As the soil texture improves, the moisture holding capacity of sandy soil improves; however, in the meantime, you need another solution. Soaker hoses are great because they minimize water usage and water at the ground level, making it easier for the vegetables' roots to take up what they need to thrive. If soaker hoses are not an option, water daily if the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch.

Grow Cover Crops

• Another way to help improve sandy soil so you can grow vegetables is to grow cover crops. Cover crops prevent soil erosion during the winter. When spring arrives, simply incorporate the cover crops, often called green manure, into the soil. These crops incorporate nitrogen into the soil, thus reducing the need for fertilizer. Rye, rye grass and barley are good cover crop options, according to Ohio State University Extension. Other good cover crops include legumes, wheat and vetch. Be sure to incorporate these crops into the soil at least two weeks before planting your vegetables.