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UC Master Gardeners of Monterey & Santa Cruz Counties

Compost & Soil Preparation

Good gardeners grow good soil. It's the soil that grows the garden. 

 

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UC Marin Master Gardeners: Page

Compost

Composting is the process of turning kitchen and yard waste and other organic materials into a decomposed soil amendment. It is a natural process that provides beneficial microbes and is a key ingredient in organic gardening and farming.
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Seedlings, sunflower, and pomegranates represent spring, summer, and fall in the garden/
UC Master Gardeners of Butte County: Page

Garden Guide & Three-Year Journal

The Butte County Garden Guide and Three-Year Journal is compiled and edited by the UC-trained Master Gardeners of Butte County. This county-specific book contains tips for every home gardener.
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UC Marin Master Gardeners: Page

Other Soil Amendments

Credit: UC ANR A soil amendment is any material added to soil to improve its physical properties, such as water retention, permeability, drainage, aeration, and structure. They can also be used to modify soil pH. There are lots of different materials available you can use to improve your soil.
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Seedlings, sunflower, and pomegranates represent spring, summer, and fall in the garden/
UC Master Gardeners of Butte County: Page

Garden Guide Extras

The Guide is full of information to help you on your gardening journey. Besides a wide range of articles, the weekly journal layout includes information pertinent for that week. The appendix is a helpful reference on planting, insects, and orchards. Get tips on how to customize and to use it.
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Soil in bags for testing.
Over the Fence (Alameda County): Article

Getting the Dirt on Soil Testing

June 18, 2024
By Jim Farr
Get the dirt on soil testing for Alameda County gardens. Learn pH levels, nutrient analysis, sampling methods & how to interpret results effectively.
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