Practical Application

1. Conduct soil tests to understand the type and function of your existing soils (See Site: Audit).
2. Consult a local landscape architect or soil scientist to develop a soil management plan and to determine best materials for the site.
3. Protect existing soil by limiting disturbance, particularly during construction or maintenance activities.
4. Communicate soil protection guidelines to the maintenance staff and contractors.
5. Implement soil protection and enhancement measures; integrate with site erosion control planning.
6. Specify sustainable materials to use for composts, mulches, and amendments.

Digging a soil test pit is an easy way to understand a site’s soil conditions. Narrow spades are excellent for this job, and the vertical extractions of soils can be sent to a soil lab for testing.

Source: Thomas Rainer