Successful crop production depends on a variety of factors, including the condition of the soil. What is considered quality soil differs according to locale, but it is generally farm soil that is chemically balanced, biologically alive and structurally in tact. The fertility and natural nutrients normally present in crop soil have been depleted from years of neglecting to rotate crops each season. Most farm soil must utilize a soil maintenance system to improve its condition and keep it in top form.

A soil maintenance system involves a system that nurishes the soil, resulting in healthier, more nutritious crops. Remember, fertile soil is a living thing. It is filled with vital microbes, fungi, insects and worms that all help farm crops thrive. Proper soil preparation along with the right environmental conditions can produce amazing results. Many soil companies allow you to buy soil online and have it delivered. Increase the vitality of your soil by:

1. Utilizing soil testing to analyze the condition of your crop dirt and determine which minerals and nutrients should be added to create optimum growing conditions.

2. Mixing rich, fertile top soil into the dirt you prepare for planting.

3. Using soil amendments to nourish and replenish the land.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Test crop soil to ensure it's in the best condition for planting

Performing soil tests can guarantee that your soil is ready for planting. Soil testing can reveal whether the soil is acid or alkaline, and which nutrients and minerals are present or depleted. This is helpful in determining which plants will grow best on your land.

I recommend: Soil Test Farm Consultants provides a variety of agricultural soil-based testing services. Lamotte Company's soil testing equipment, including pH testing meters, individual test kits and electronic labs, is laboratory created and tested.

Replenish existing crop dirt by mixing in high quality topsoil

Topsoil is used to replenish existing soil in need of revitalization by adding essential nutrients. This encourages the growth of healthy, abundant crops and other plant life. Some soil manufacturers will allow you to view their soil before buying, and even extend delivery service for your convenience.

I recommend: Soil companies like Green Brothers Earth Works has a variety of rich topsoil perfect for planting. They also carry dirt soil, mushroom soil, compost soil and more. American Topsoil features a variety of topsoils including regular, pulverized and organic.

Use soil amendments to create fertile soil for planting

Soil amendments are a great way of revitalizing soil. You can chose from organic or inorganic amendments. Most amendments consist of peat, wood chips grass trimmings, compost manure straw and other biosolids mixed into the existing soil.

I recommend: HomeHarvest.com provides beneficial micro organisms,compost and earthworm castings to help improve the condition of your soil. Peaceful Valley Farm and Garden Supply carries organic compost for organic soil, a special compost tea that is brewed especially to invigorate the soil and they also bread earthworms to provide rich castings to grow plants.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Your irrigation system is an important part of cultivating a successful crop. You must consider the plant type, size and the weather to begin determining how much water to use. Expect to adjust your irrigation system throughout the growing season since the amount of water needed changes as plants grow and the weather changes.