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Gardeners often wonder whether to do their plowing or tilling in the spring or fall. Working the soil in the fall has several advantages over the traditional spring plowing.
It allows for earlier planting, - since the basic soil preparation is al. ready done when spring arrives. The < . turning under of large amounts of ! organic matter is likely to result in ^ better decomposition when done in the fall, as autumn temperatures are higher than those of early spring, and there is more time for the process to take place.
Insects, disease organisms and perennial weeds may be reduced through burial, or exposure to harsh winter weather. The physical condition of heavy clay soils may be improved by the alternate freezing and thawing, which breaks tightly aggregated particles.
When snow is trapped between the hills of roughly-plowed soil, more moisture is retained than on flat, bare ground. Incorporation of limestone in the fall gives the mineral time to become integrated into the soil and influence spring plant growth.
To prepare for fall tilling, you should check soil fertility and pH by having your soil analyzed through a '■ local Extension office. This test should be repeated at least once every three years.
Soil pH measures the degree of acidity or alkalinity of the soil. Vegetables vary some in their requirements, but most garden crops will do well with a soil pH of 6.2-6.8. This is a little below neutral or slightly acid (sour).
If soil pH is too high or low, poor crop growth will result, largely due to the effects of pH on the availability of nutrients to plants. A soil test also will give you an idea of the nutrient level in your soil.
Lime and sulfur are commonly used to change soil pH. The correct soil pH is essential for optimum
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