Question
Hi Catherine-

Moved to a new house last year and started a garden this year. The soil when it dries out has a rock hard crust. Plan on adding compost and sand before tilling in the fall to try to improve the soil. A co-worker was building a new house and had left over sand so I filled a bunch of pails with it. Now I am told by my neighbor that I do not want to use construction sand but I need beach/river sand. Does it matter what type of sand I use or is it all the same?

Thanks,
Jim

Answer
There are several different sized sand particles and the most common is the smallest form when adding it to your garden, so that is probably what your friend is suggesting.  But with that said  I would use the sand that you collected, just make sure you are not putting more than a pailful for every 3 or so square feet, add in some compost and aged animal and all should be okay.  The sand will help with drainage as clay type soil have a tendency to hold moisture - this can also be a good thing if you live in a dry area, your soil will need less watering.

Soil building can take several years so keep adding in amendments and fertilizers each year.

Happy gardening,
Catherine Abbott
www.your-vegetable-gardening-helper.com