@Clenram: It looks like it needs a lot of organic matter added. It will be a process, but well worth it, because healthy soil equals healthy plants. When you start planting, add compost to the rows or hills and that will help a lot. Then during the off season, plant some green manure crops, such as buckwheat, crimson clover, vetch, etc. and turn them under or till them in. This will improve your soil dramatically.
@Clenram: I plow it under. The plants decay in a few weeks and the nitrogen that clover 'fixes' will be available to the new plants you put in. It helps increase the organic matter in your soil pretty quickly. The increased organic matter will help with soil fertility and water holding ability in the soil, as well.
@Queen_of_Green: I have a friend that brings me manure...nice friend ..right? I did not think of putting the compost in rolls or hills ... that is a good idea. I have trouble with my compost pile because of fire ants.
@Clenram: You can side dress the plants with compost or manure when the come up. Make sure the manure doesn't push up against the stems of the plants. I always leave a few inches clear around the plants bases when I am side dressing or mulching to prevent burning, rotting or disease.
@Queen_of_Green: I put a picture of the front or backside...not sure...of this new area that Jess is working on. I hope he gets it finished before the next big rain or there goes all my squash seeds. :)
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