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Compressing Soil When Planting
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Posted by
benesesso 9 (
My Page) on
Wed, Nov 7, 12 at 15:14
| I used to think that the soil had to be foot-compressed when planting. I recently read that compression shouldn't be done, as it makes it harder for the roots to move out.
So, what do most gardeners here do? |
Follow-Up Postings:
RE: Compressing Soil When Planting
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| I think that practice is recommended in order to stabilize the plant and to ensure that, when it's watered, it doesn't collapse. I don't stomp the dirt; I generally use my hands to press the dirt down since I'm usually down on the ground anyway. |
RE: Compressing Soil When Planting
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| I'm with tomato on this one. I DO press down a bit, but not hard. With trees I use my foot, but I do NOT put my full weight down. I think moderation is the key. I'm curious to hear what other folks do too. Happy gardening! |
RE: Compressing Soil When Planting
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| Ditto. Compress enough to give the plant some support but not too hard. |
RE: Compressing Soil When Planting
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Agree- with trees I use my foot and give a good push all around with just reg. plants I use my hand. This also helps to get rid of air pockets-NG
PS Ref.your foot-- I think weight may come into play. 115 vs 225- lol |
RE: Compressing Soil When Planting
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| Great question! I remember my Dad pressing down hard with his foot when planting saplings, and they all did just fine. Of course, this was in Illinois and we had farmland soil. I guess it depends on what kind of soil you have - with clayey desert soil, I just water it in real well and it compresses itself. With looser soil, I apply light to moderate pressure, taking care not to mash down too hard. |
RE: Compressing Soil When Planting
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| Thanks for all the replies. Guess the words "Tread lightly" apply. |
RE: Compressing Soil When Planting
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| Yeah, I just water stuff in - I tend to think it gets more of the soil to the roots anyway. |
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