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TO DO/Add organic matter: <br />Organic matter is an important component of soil health. It increases the soil's capacity <br />to absorb and release nutrients. It improves moisture -holding capacity of sandy soils and <br />the drainage capability of heavy clay soils. It also improves the structure of soil by pro- <br />viding a good environment for root growth and by encouraging earthworms and microor- <br />ganisms that are beneficial to plant health. You can easily add organic matter by using <br />compost as a mulch on your garden soil and around shrubs and trees. To do this, mix <br />1-2 inches of well -decomposed compost into the top 6-8 inches of soil around your plants. <br />You can also improve the health of your lawn by top -dressing. This means lightly spread- <br />ing compost (about 1/4" maximum) over your lawn and gently raking it into the lawn. <br />TO DO/Amend soils: <br />Many lawns, especially those where the soil has been compacted by heavy machinery <br />during housing construction are impervious and provide little infiltration of water. Tilling <br />the soil to at least 4 to 6 inches with a garden tiller and incorporating 1 to 2 inches of <br />well -decomposed compost will increase infiltration. Remember to lightly compact the <br />soils before planting or seeding. A good rule of thumb is to measure how deep an <br />impression your foot makes when stepping on the soil. Your foot impression should <br />not be more than 1/4 inch deep. Choosing plants that develop a deep root structure <br />(>4-6") will further increase the potential for water to infiltrate. (see Plant Selection, pg 7) <br />PLANT THE RIGHT PLANT <br />Choosing the right plant material for your yard is an important step in creating a land- <br />scape that is sustainable. It's easy to get caught up in the beauty of a plant you discover <br />at the garden center, only to find it requires conditions that don't match your yard. <br />By selecting plants that are suited to the conditions of your location, you will <br />reduce the work required to establish and maintain the plants and they will survive <br />longer and look better in your landscape. Be sure to consider the location's soil, <br />moisture, available light, and mature size when selecting plants. <br />The same goes for your lawn. The fine -leaved fescues as well as the older, common <br />types of Kentucky Bluegrasses are better suited to lower inputs than turf -type perennial <br />ryegrasses and many of the newer, improved types of Kentucky Bluegrasses. <br />DESIGN <br />1 <br />