Soil testing

If you are going to sow seeds directly into the garden, have a soil test done first. Only sow when the ground can be worked and is warm enough. Spade the ground and work in compost when the soil is moist and crumbly. Then add an all-purpose fertilizer and correct the soil pH if necessary.

You still have time to have your soil tested by your county agricultural extension. Vegetables grow best in soil with pH of 6.0-6.5; grass in a pH of 6.0-7.0. Amend if needed.