Building Blocks

“Good soil is the key to a great garden,” says Gene. “If you think you’re going to get serious, save room for at least two compost bins.” Gene adds organic matter to his garden twice a year―in the spring and fall―and amends each time he starts transplants. Dark and rich, the results are visible to the eye.

Good soil can be made even better and bad soil can be improved when you add organic matter. Make your own compost, or purchase it by the bag, as Gene often does. Surprisingly, he’s not picky about what he adds. “Decomposed chicken manure gave me some of the best tomatoes and lettuces I’ve ever had,” he professes.