Introduction: Welcome to Richmond! Let's Tackle That New Build Clay
Hey Richmond! A huge welcome to the neighbourhood and congratulations on your fantastic new home! Getting those keys is an amazing feeling, a fresh start filled with possibilities. Now, let's talk about what's *outside* those shiny new walls. If you've started dreaming of beautiful landscaping and getting your hands dirty with some gardening, you've likely already encountered the famous Ottawa-area welcome gift, especially common in new developments: *compacted clay soil*.
Yep, that heavy, sticky stuff can feel less like fertile ground and more like something you'd use for pottery (or maybe patching a sidewalk!). It holds onto water stubbornly and can be tough for new plant roots to push through. Landscaping on clay isn't impossible, though – far from it! You just need the right approach.
With spring planning kicking into high gear, now is the *perfect* time to figure out how to work *with* your soil, not against it. This article focuses specifically on a crucial, often overlooked detail for success in clay: giving your plants the *right amount of space* to breathe and thrive. We'll share practical tips and actionable advice to help your new Richmond yard go from challenging clay to charming curb appeal. Let's get started!
Decoding Your Ottawa Dirt: Understanding Clay Soil in New Builds
Clay soil texture varies greatly depending on moisture levels.
So, you've unpacked the boxes in your lovely new Richmond home, maybe eyed up a spot for the BBQ in Greely, or perhaps started dreaming of gardens in Metcalfe. Then you looked down... at the *dirt*. Welcome to the club! Much of the Ottawa area is blessed (or cursed, depending on your perspective!) with clay soil. But what *is* clay soil, really?
Think of soil like a mix of different-sized bits: sand (biggest), silt (medium), and clay (tiniest). Clay soil has *lots* of those teeny-tiny clay particles. When wet, they stick together like peanut butter, making it heavy and slow to drain. When dry? It can bake harder than my grandma's forgotten fruitcake.
Why is it such a big deal in new builds? During construction, heavy machinery rolls all over your future yard. This squishes those tiny clay particles *even closer together*, creating *compaction*. It's like trying to grow flowers in a brick – tough for roots to penetrate, and water struggles to get in *or* out. This compaction can really stress your lawn, often leading to issues later on; getting ahead of problems is key, so check out these Richmond lawn weeds summer control tips.
Key Insight: New build construction often leads to severely compacted clay soil, hindering drainage and root growth.
It's not *all* bad news, though! Clay soil is actually quite rich in nutrients and holds onto water well (sometimes *too* well). The trick is learning how to manage it. Our lovely Ottawa Zone 5a climate adds another twist. The constant freezing and thawing through winter and spring causes clay soil to heave and shift, which can disturb plant roots. For expert advice on navigating local climate factors, consult resources like the Master Gardeners of Ottawa-Carleton.
Understanding this foundation is the first step in creating the yard you want. Knowing your soil helps immensely when choosing plants and planning your layout; it's a crucial part of developing great Richmond landscape design ideas & plans. Planting trees, for example, requires specific techniques in heavy soil, but success is possible with the right approach – find helpful guidance in these Richmond tree planting tips for healthy growth. Similarly, keeping shrubs happy long-term involves understanding their soil needs *before* you even think about trimming; healthy soil supports vibrant plants that benefit from proper care like these Richmond summer shrub pruning tips for healthy gardens.
Working with clay takes effort, often involving adding organic matter like compost to improve its structure. Don't be discouraged! With a little know-how (and maybe some sweat equity), you can turn that challenging clay into a thriving landscape. If tackling heavy soil feels overwhelming, remember professional help is available for various yard tasks – explore our Services to see how we can assist.
Space Invaders: Why Plant Spacing Matters More on Clay
Proper spacing (right) allows for better airflow and root growth compared to crowded planting (left).
Alright, let's talk about personal space – not for you, but for your plants! You grab those lovely shrubs or perennials, see the little tag suggesting spacing, and think, "Nah, I want it to look full *now*!" We've all been tempted. But when you're gardening on the heavy clay soil common around Ottawa and especially in new builds in areas like Richmond, giving your plants enough elbow room isn't just nice, it's *crucial*. Think of it as respecting their leafy bubble!
Why the big fuss about spacing on clay?
Root Room Rumble: Remember how clay particles are tiny and stick together? That makes it tough for roots to push through and expand. When plants are jammed together, their roots are forced into direct competition in already difficult conditions. Instead of spreading out nicely, they become a tangled mess fighting for the same limited water and nutrients. It’s like rush hour on the 417 for roots – slow going and stressful!
Airflow Woes: Clay soil holds onto moisture, sometimes a little *too* well. When plants are crowded, their dense foliage traps humidity close to the ground. This creates a perfect party zone for fungal diseases like powdery mildew, especially during our humid Ottawa summers. Proper spacing allows air to circulate, drying leaves faster and preventing problems. Less disease means less stress, and potentially less need for intervention later, though if problems arise, a thorough cleanup might be needed – you can explore options like an Ottawa property cleanup service for general help, or more localized options like the City Property Cleanup Service.
Drainage Dramas: Because clay drains slowly, planting too closely can make things worse. Water pools around the base of tightly packed plants, increasing the risk of root rot. Giving plants space allows water to evaporate or drain away more evenly from the soil surface around them.
The Perils of Packing Them In
Planting too close might look lush initially, but it often leads to:
Stunted growth as plants compete fiercely.
Increased susceptibility to pests and diseases due to stress and poor airflow. Dealing with diseased or dead plants can be part of revitalizing a garden; residents needing assistance in specific areas can look into a Richmond yard cleanup service or even a Marionville property cleanup service if they're further afield.
Difficulty with maintenance – try weeding or applying treatments between tangled branches! Proper spacing makes tasks like applying beneficial mulching and edging much easier, helping retain moisture appropriately and suppress weeds.
Plan for the Future!
Look at established yards in neighbourhoods like Barrhaven or Nepean – those beautiful, mature trees and shrubs didn't start out touching! Always check the plant tag for the *mature* size. That tiny perennial might eventually spread two feet wide! Space plants based on their future size, not how they look in the pot. Yes, your garden beds might look a bit sparse for the first year or two, but trust us, your plants (and your back) will thank you later. Proper planting is key, and if digging into that tough clay and spacing everything perfectly feels like a major chore, remember there are professional Services available to help get your garden started right. Give your green pals the space they need to succeed!
Operation Soil Rescue: Prepping Your Richmond Clay for Spring Planting
Okay, Operation Soil Rescue is officially underway! Tackling that Richmond clay might seem like preparing for battle, but trust me, with the right plan, you can turn that stubborn soil into a welcoming home for your spring plants. It’s less about fighting the clay and more about making friends with it. Let’s get those garden beds prepped!
Mixing compost into clay soil is crucial for improving its structure.
Step 1: Timing is Everything (Seriously!)
Before you even think about grabbing a shovel, check your soil's moisture level. Working clay soil when it's wet is a cardinal sin of gardening – it squishes those tiny particles even tighter, creating rock-hard compaction. Bad news for roots! Wait until the soil is just *damp*, not soggy. How to tell? Grab a handful and squeeze. If it forms a tight, sticky ball, it’s too wet. If it crumbles nicely, you're good to go! Patience now prevents major headaches later.
Step 2: Clear the Decks
Remove any existing weeds, old plant debris, rocks, or leftover construction bits from your planting area. A clean slate makes the next steps much easier. If you're dealing with a larger area or significant debris left over from construction, getting professional help might be worth considering; our crews can handle tasks like a thorough city property cleanup service to get you started faster.
Step 3: Bring on the Good Stuff (Organic Matter!)
This is the *magic ingredient* for improving clay soil. Organic matter – think compost, well-rotted manure, shredded leaves (leaf mold), or peat moss – works wonders. It helps break up the dense clay structure, improves drainage so roots don't drown, boosts aeration (letting roots breathe!), and adds vital nutrients. Be generous! Spread a good 2 to 4 inches (5-10 cm) layer over the entire area you plan to plant. Your local garden centre will have bags, or you can even start your own compost pile for a fantastic, eco-friendly source. Check local resources like the City of Ottawa Composting Guide for tips.
Now, gently incorporate that lovely organic matter into the top 6 to 8 inches (15-20 cm) of your existing clay soil using effective soil preparation techniques. A garden fork is often better than a rototiller, especially for smaller areas, as heavy tilling can sometimes damage soil structure. You're aiming for a nice blend, not pulverizing it into dust. This careful mixing is key to successful *landscaping* and *gardening* on clay. If the thought of digging into that heavy soil across a large space feels overwhelming, perhaps comparable to needing a dedicated Metcalf yard cleanup service for a big overhaul, tackling it in sections can make it more manageable.
Step 5: Consider Going Up (Raised Beds)
If your area has particularly poor drainage, or if you’re dealing with very heavy clay like some spots in Manotick or Osgoode, *raised beds* are a fantastic solution. Building beds even 6-12 inches high and filling them with a mix of good topsoil and compost gives your plants an immediate advantage with excellent drainage and loose soil right where their roots need it most. This can be a great part of a garden install project.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Once your *soil amendment* is done and your *spring planting* is complete, finish the job right. Applying a layer of natural mulch like shredded bark around your plants is highly recommended. Good mulching and edging helps retain moisture in the soil (reducing watering needs), keeps roots cooler in summer, suppresses weeds, and continues to slowly add organic matter as it breaks down.
Taking these steps might feel like work, but transforming that challenging clay is incredibly rewarding. You're setting the stage for healthier, happier plants and a more beautiful yard. Witnessing these kinds of garden transformations thanks to improved soil is fantastic! We really appreciate you taking on the challenge to give your plants the best start. Thank You for investing in your soil's health!
Planting Partners: Choosing Clay-Tolerant Friends & Spacing Them Right
Okay, team, you’ve prepped your soil like champions! Now comes the fun part: choosing the plants! But wait – before you dash off to the garden centre and grab everything pretty, remember our friend, the clay soil. Not all plants are thrilled about its quirks. Choosing partners that *tolerate* or even *thrive* in heavier soil is key to success in our Ottawa climate. Think of it as matchmaking for your garden!
Choosing Your Clay Companions
The good news? Many beautiful and tough plants aren't afraid of a little clay. We’re looking for species known for their adaptability and robust root systems. Bonus points if they are native or well-suited to our Zone 5a conditions – they’ll generally need less fussing. Seeing what thrives naturally in areas around Kars or along the Rideau River near Vernon can give you great ideas for *native plant* choices that support local ecosystems. The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority has excellent resources on native species.
Here are a few reliable performers known to handle clay soil reasonably well in the Ottawa area:
Trees: Serviceberry (Amelanchier), Freeman Maple (Acer x freemanii), Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis), Hawthorn (Crataegus species - choose disease-resistant types!). These provide structure and shade. The City of Ottawa also offers guidance on tree planting.
Shrubs: Red Osier Dogwood (Cornus sericea), many Spirea varieties (Spiraea species), Potentilla (Potentilla fruticosa), some Viburnums (like Nannyberry), Lilacs (Syringa vulgaris). Great for borders and adding layers.
Perennials: Daylilies (Hemerocallis), Hostas (great for shady spots!), Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), Sedum 'Autumn Joy', Bee Balm (Monarda didyma). These bring colour and texture year after year.
If you're replacing plants that struggled or clearing out an overgrown area before you start, sometimes a good clear-out is necessary. If it feels like too much, an Ottawa yard cleanup service can give you a fresh canvas. For those in specific neighbourhoods needing targeted help, options like a Metcalf garden clean up service or a City Garden Clean Up Service are also available.
Give 'Em Room! The Spacing Game Plan
We touched on *why* spacing matters in clay, now let's talk *how*. The golden rule? Space plants based on their mature size, not their size in the pot! That tiny shrub might look lonely now, but in a few years, it could be a gentle giant hogging all the space.
Here’s a rough guide for some clay-tolerant examples:
Plant Partner Spacing Guide
Plant Type
Example Name
Approx. Mature Size (H x W)
Recommended Spacing (On Centre)
Tree
Serviceberry
15-25 ft x 15-20 ft
15-20 ft
Tree
Freeman Maple 'Jeffersred'
40-50 ft x 30-40 ft
30-40 ft
Shrub
Red Osier Dogwood
6-9 ft x 7-10 ft
6-8 ft
Shrub
Potentilla 'Goldfinger'
2-3 ft x 3-4 ft
3-4 ft
Perennial
Coneflower (Echinacea)
2-4 ft x 1.5-2 ft
18-24 inches
Perennial
Hosta 'Sum and Substance'
3 ft x 4-5 ft
3-4 ft
Perennial
Sedum 'Autumn Joy'
1.5-2 ft x 1.5-2 ft
18-24 inches
Note: Sizes are approximate and can vary with specific cultivars and conditions.
Visualizing the Future
It's tough picturing how big things will get! Here are some tricks:
Use Placeholders: Grab empty pots, stakes, or even lawn chairs and place them where you plan to plant, spaced according to the *mature* width. Step back and look. Does it feel right?
Garden Hose Outline: Lay down a garden hose to map out the edge of a mature shrub or tree's canopy.
Look Around: Check out established gardens in your neighbourhood (or browse inspiring photos of local garden transformations) to see how mature plants fill their space. Find inspiration from local groups like the Ottawa Horticultural Society.
Yes, your *landscaping* might look a bit gappy for the first season or two. Resist the urge to overplant! Healthy, well-spaced plants will grow faster and stronger, ultimately giving you a more beautiful and lower-maintenance garden. Proper spacing complements other garden care, like ensuring your beds are edged neatly and your lawn care routine keeps the grass looking sharp next to your thriving plants.
Planning this all out, choosing the right plants, and getting the spacing just right takes thought. If you're mapping out your project and would like a hand with the planning or the planting itself, feel free to reach out. You can easily request an estimate and share your ideas through our estimate feedback form. Happy planting!
Hypothetical Growth: Proper vs. Crowded Spacing (Year 3)
85%
Properly Spaced
45%
Crowded
*Illustrative example showing potential mature size achieved after 3 years.
Getting Your Hands Dirty: Spring Planting Techniques for Clay Success
Okay, you've wrestled that clay soil into submission (mostly!), amended your garden beds, and chosen your perfect plant partners. High five! Now for the moment of truth: actually getting those plants into the ground. Don't worry, this isn't rocket science, but a few key techniques will make a world of difference for your plants settling into their new clay-ish home. Let’s get those hands dirty!
Plant with the root ball slightly high and in a wide hole filled with amended soil.
The Right Moves for Spring Planting
Spring planting in the Ottawa area, including neighbourhoods like Russell or Embrun, typically kicks off once the risk of hard frost has passed (usually late May or early June) *and* the soil is workable – remember, not too wet!
Dig Wide, Not Just Deep: This is the golden rule for clay! Dig your planting hole *two to three times wider* than the plant's root ball, but only *as deep* as the root ball. Think saucer shape, not a deep pit. Why? We want roots to spread *out* into that lovely amended soil you prepared, not struggle downwards into denser clay.
Fluff Those Roots: Gently remove the plant from its pot. Are the roots circling tightly? Gently tease them apart or make a few vertical cuts with clean pruners. This encourages them to grow outwards instead of continuing to circle.
Backfill Blend: Don't just plop the heavy clay you dug out back into the hole! Mix the soil you removed roughly 50/50 with compost or good quality garden soil. This creates a transition zone for the roots.
Mind the Height! This is critical. Place the plant in the hole so the top of its root ball is *level with or slightly higher* than the surrounding soil surface. Planting too deep is a common mistake in clay and can lead to the crown (where stem meets roots) rotting. Gently backfill with your amended soil mix, lightly tamping to remove large air pockets, but don't compact it!
Water Wisely: Water thoroughly right after planting. This helps settle the soil around the roots. Going forward, clay holds moisture well. Check the soil a few inches down before watering again. You want it moist, not soggy. Consistent, deep watering is better than frequent shallow sprinkles. Proper watering is a cornerstone of ongoing plant care, something essential for successful Garden Maintenance. Consider also options like City Garden Maintenance Service for professional upkeep.
Mulch is Your Friend: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch (like shredded bark) around the plant, but keep it an inch or two *away* from the stem or trunk itself. Mulch helps conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and keep soil temperatures even.
Common Clay Planting Pitfalls to Avoid:
Digging a narrow, deep hole (the "bathtub effect" – roots drown).
Planting too deep (leading to crown rot).
Forgetting to amend the backfill soil.
Skipping the mulch (invites weeds and moisture loss).
Ideal planting window. Use correct techniques. Plan final look, maybe alongside Sod Installation.
Summer
Monitor watering, weed, enjoy your growing garden!
Getting these planting steps right sets your garden up for success. It might seem like extra effort now, but your thriving plants will thank you later! If planning the whole project or tackling the physical planting feels like a bit much, we're here to help. You can easily share your ideas and get a quote using our estimate feedback form. Rest assured, any information you share is handled according to our Privacy Policy.
Clay Soil Cheat Sheet: Quick Wins for Your Richmond Garden
Alright Richmond gardeners, let's cut to the chase! Dealing with that infamous Ottawa clay, especially in newer areas, can feel like trying to reason with a stubborn mule. But fear not! While clay soil has its quirks (like holding water a bit *too* well and sometimes baking concrete-hard), it's definitely workable. Here are your quick wins – the essential tips to help you succeed without needing a PhD in soil science. Think of this as your *gardening* shortcut guide for clay!
Do This for Clay Success:
Add Organic Matter: Compost is your best friend. Mix it in generously. Vital for Soil Preparation.
Plant High: Keep the root ball top level or slightly above ground.
Dig Wide Holes: 2-3x wider than the root ball, only as deep.
Choose Tolerant Plants: Select species known to handle heavy soil.
Stick to these tips, and you'll find that *landscaping* on Richmond clay is totally achievable. Happy gardening!
FAQs: Your Richmond New Build Clay Questions Answered
Got questions about tackling that tough clay soil in your new Richmond yard? You're not alone! It's one of the most common head-scratchers for new homeowners around Ottawa. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you get growing.
Often, yes! New build clay is usually heavily compacted by construction machinery, making it super tough for grass roots to establish and access water. Poor drainage adds to the stress. Aerating regularly and topdressing with quality compost can definitely help improve the soil structure for a healthier lawn over time. Consider professional lawn care services for help.
Oh, if only it were that easy! While tempting, just layering topsoil can create drainage problems – water hits the clay layer underneath and pools, potentially drowning roots. It's far better to mix amendments *into* the existing clay, improving its structure from within for long-term success in your landscaping.
Compost, compost, and more compost! Regularly adding organic matter is the gold standard for improving clay. Spread a couple of inches over your garden beds each year. You can gently mix it into the top layer, or just let nature (hello, worms!) do the work. It boosts drainage, aeration, and nutrient levels. This is fundamental to good garden maintenance.
It's tricky because clay holds water so well! Overwatering is easy to do. The best bet is to check the soil *before* watering. Stick your finger down a couple of inches – if it feels damp, hold off. Water deeply when the top inch or two feels dry, rather than light, frequent sprinkles.
Not always *essential*, but they sure make life easier! Raised beds offer instant good drainage and loose soil, sidestepping the worst clay compaction issues. If you're battling constantly soggy soil or ground that's hard as rock, they are a fantastic, highly recommended solution for happier plants and easier gardening. We can help with garden install projects including raised beds.
Deep breaths – it happens to the best of us! Depending on the plant size and how long they've been rooted, you *might* be able to carefully transplant some in early spring or fall. For larger, established plants, selective pruning can improve airflow, but relocating overcrowded plants is often the best long-term fix if feasible.
Absolutely! Let's be honest, amending heavy clay soil is serious work. If digging, incorporating tonnes of compost, or clearing out leftover construction junk feels like too much, professional help is a great option. Services like a thorough property clean up can handle debris removal, saving you time and strain. Check out our ratings on Google My Business!
That's a common scenario too! Tackling overgrown weeds, unwanted plants, or just general neglect often needs a good clear-out before you can even think about soil improvement. We offer targeted help for those situations, including specific location help like a Marionville garden clean up service or Marionville yard cleanup service, ensuring you get the right assistance for your unique yard transformation.
Great question! We believe in being upfront. You can discover our company's approach and values – just Learn more about us. For specific details on scheduling, what to expect during service, and general operational guidelines, please feel free to review our service terms. We want you to feel comfortable and informed!
Conclusion: Cultivating Your Dream Yard in Richmond, Clay and All!
So, there you have it! Tackling that notorious Richmond clay doesn't have to feel like an impossible mission. While it definitely has *character* (let's be polite!), understanding its quirks is half the battle. Remember the key takeaways: improve your soil structure with plenty of organic matter, give your plants the elbow room they truly need by respecting their mature size, choose clay-tolerant plant buddies, and use smart planting techniques like digging wider holes.
Building a beautiful garden or landscape on clay soil takes patience and the right approach, but the results are incredibly rewarding. We understand the unique challenges of *gardening* and *landscaping* in the Ottawa region, from Richmond right out to Winchester and Metcalfe – we've seen (and dug in!) it all. Don't let that heavy soil intimidate you out of creating the outdoor space you've envisioned.
Feeling inspired but maybe a little overwhelmed by the *soil amendment* and planting process? Let us take the strain! *Book a personalized consultation* to discuss your specific Richmond yard challenges and dreams. Or, if you're ready for the heavy lifters, *explore our landscaping services* today and let's turn that clay into curb appeal, together! Happy gardening!
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"text": "Not always essential, but they sure make life easier! Raised beds offer instant good drainage and loose soil, sidestepping the worst clay compaction issues. If you're battling constantly soggy soil or ground that's hard as rock, they are a fantastic, highly recommended solution for happier plants and easier gardening."
}
},
{
"@type": "Question",
"name": "Uh oh, I think I planted my shrubs too close together last year. What can I do now?",
"acceptedAnswer": {
"@type": "Answer",
"text": "Deep breaths – it happens to the best of us! Depending on the plant size and how long they've been rooted, you might be able to carefully transplant some in early spring or fall. For larger, established plants, selective pruning can improve airflow, but relocating overcrowded plants is often the best long-term fix if feasible."
}
},
{
"@type": "Question",
"name": "My back aches just thinking about digging this clay! Can I hire someone for the heavy lifting or a major cleanup?",
"acceptedAnswer": {
"@type": "Answer",
"text": "Absolutely! Let's be honest, amending heavy clay soil is serious work. If digging, incorporating tonnes of compost, or clearing out leftover construction junk feels like too much, professional help is a great option. Services like a thorough property clean up can handle debris removal, saving you time and strain."
}
},
{
"@type": "Question",
"name": "What if my existing garden beds are just a mess from previous owners, not just new build clay?",
"acceptedAnswer": {
"@type": "Answer",
"text": "That's a common scenario too! Tackling overgrown weeds, unwanted plants, or just general neglect often needs a good clear-out before you can even think about soil improvement. We offer targeted help for those situations, including specific location help like a Marionville garden clean up service, ensuring you get the right assistance for your unique yard transformation."
}
},
{
"@type": "Question",
"name": "I'm considering using your services, but I want to understand the process better. Where can I learn more?",
"acceptedAnswer": {
"@type": "Answer",
"text": "Great question! We believe in being upfront. You can discover our company's approach and values – just Learn more about us. For specific details on scheduling, what to expect during service, and general operational guidelines, please feel free to review our service terms. We want you to feel comfortable and informed!"
}
}
]
},
{
"@type": "HowTo",
"name": "How to Prepare Clay Soil for Spring Planting",
"description": "Steps to amend and prepare heavy clay soil for successful spring planting in new build areas like Richmond, Ottawa.",
"estimatedCost": {
"@type": "MonetaryAmount",
"currency": "CAD",
"value": "50-200" // Example range, adjust as needed
},
"totalTime": "PT4H", // Example: 4 hours
"step": [
{
"@type": "HowToStep",
"position": 1,
"name": "Timing is Everything",
"text": "Check soil moisture. Wait until damp (crumbles when squeezed), not wet (sticky ball) or dry (rock hard). Working wet clay causes compaction.",
"url": "https://cleanyards.ca/blog/richmond-new-build-plant-spacing-clay/#soil-prep" // Link to the relevant section
},
{
"@type": "HowToStep",
"position": 2,
"name": "Clear the Decks",
"text": "Remove weeds, old plants, rocks, and construction debris from the planting area.",
"url": "https://cleanyards.ca/blog/richmond-new-build-plant-spacing-clay/#soil-prep"
},
{
"@type": "HowToStep",
"position": 3,
"name": "Bring on the Good Stuff (Organic Matter!)",
"text": "Spread 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) of compost, well-rotted manure, or leaf mold over the area. This improves drainage, aeration, and adds nutrients.",
"url": "https://cleanyards.ca/blog/richmond-new-build-plant-spacing-clay/#soil-prep",
"itemListElement": {
"@type": "HowToSupply",
"name": "Organic Matter (Compost, Manure, Leaf Mold)"
}
},
{
"@type": "HowToStep",
"position": 4,
"name": "Mix it Up (Gently!)",
"text": "Gently incorporate the organic matter into the top 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) of clay soil using a garden fork or spade. Avoid over-tilling.",
"url": "https://cleanyards.ca/blog/richmond-new-build-plant-spacing-clay/#soil-prep",
"itemListElement": {
"@type": "HowToTool",
"name": "Garden Fork or Spade"
}
},
{
"@type": "HowToStep",
"position": 5,
"name": "Consider Going Up (Raised Beds)",
"text": "For very poor drainage, build raised beds (6-12 inches high) and fill with a good soil/compost mix.",
"url": "https://cleanyards.ca/blog/richmond-new-build-plant-spacing-clay/#soil-prep"
},
{
"@type": "HowToStep",
"position": 6,
"name": "Finishing Touches",
"text": "After planting, apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around plants (keeping it away from stems) to retain moisture and suppress weeds.",
"url": "https://cleanyards.ca/blog/richmond-new-build-plant-spacing-clay/#soil-prep",
"itemListElement": {
"@type": "HowToTool",
"name": "Organic Mulch (e.g., Shredded Bark)"
}
}
]
}
]
}
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