- Not preparing the soil Soil preparation is extremely important because your plants will get their nutrients from the soil. Most vegetables do not do well in extremely acidic or alkaline soils. They also struggle in poor soils. Soil pH and mineral content should be tested and modified appropriately. Sandy soils do not provide enough nutrients, and clay soils are subject to compaction and do not allow good root drainage and good drainage. Both can be standardized to a great extent by adding a lot of organic matter.
Good humidity in the soil is necessary for the success of a potager, but the soil must be well drained. You can always provide more water, but you’ll find it hard to find vegetables that support wet feet, the rare exceptions being taro, arrowhead and watercress. If your clay soil holds too much water, use raised beds, bales of straw, or containers. In low areas, increase drainage by digging ditches or creating a dry creek bed to redirect water.
