Question
Bluffton Indiana my new next door neighbor said he was going to put some pea gravel into his new garden to help ariate his soil is this wise ?  

Answer
John, I only believe in adding organic matter to the soil.  Although the pea gravel will not cause any chemical or ph imbalance, it adds no benefit to the soil and it will impede his ability to till the soil. It will also prevent him from growing root crops such as carrots and beets without adverse affects.

By adding organic matter to the soil, the soil becomes loamy and does not need aeration.  If the soil is comprised mainly of clay, the gravel will still not help the roots overcome the poor drainage.  Instead, it would be wiser and cheaper to add compost, peat moss, shredded leaves, dried grass clippings, and aged manure.  These materials will add all the nutrients needed for healthy plants all year round.

I hope this information helps.  Please write again if I can ever be of assistance.

Regards,

Mike