How Plants Grow

Learn what plants need to grow strong and healthy, and you can help them to put on their best performance.

Excerpted from How to Grow Practically Everything
Filed under: Plants, Gardening

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Earthworms Key to Improving Soil Structure

Soil Matters

Most plants love to sink their roots into aerated, moist yet well-drained soil. To achieve these ideal conditions, dig in plenty of organic matter, such as mushroom compost, before planting, and spread a thick layer on the soil surface in spring. Earthworms will then drag it down into the soil, where it will gradually improve drainage and water-retention capacity, ensuring that your soil contains all the nutrients and moisture necessary for seeds to germinate and roots to explore.