Those of us who are fortunate to have some land have probably planted by now. For first year gardens many people simply order some compost have it delivered and plant. Others churn up last years soil and add new compost. Some great veggies will be had by doing just that, but there are a few things that help make food even more tasty and nutritious beyond adding compost and manure.

Agricultural Lime

Before planting this year I reviewed Steve Soloman’s Book “Gardening When It Counts”. Soloman advocates a very light addition of agricultural lime to be added for most northern growers. We’re talking a dusting on top of the soil to be mixed. The lime helps to balance the PH of the soil and allows plants to grow faster. This is recommended in the spring/fall.

Complete Organic Fertilizer

Soloman provides a recipe for a natural fertilizer that includes lime, gypsum, seedmeal. Check it out http://westsidegardener.com/howto/fertilizer.html
Using this recipe with a good compost/manure base looks to be on of the best ways to ensure quality soil. What Soloman so clearly shows us is that plants are only as strong as what they are lacking. By adding COF or at least small amounts of agriculture lime this gives our plants (and bodies) more to draw from.