Question
i'm an avid yet amateur vegetable gardener, the last few years my garden has started strong but faded midsummer(small fruit, spots,etc.)i keep it watered seemingly to no avail.tried fertilizers too.Is there anything i can do now(pregarden season upstate n y) to help the soil so i dont have another inadequate garden??  thanx
ps  veggies;;tomatoes, beets peppers carrots  cukes

Answer
Will, fertile soil is the secret to successful gardening. You definitely want to begin by tilling in ample organic amendments such as compost, shredded leaves, dried grass clippings, peat, humus, and aged manure. Most local garden centers offer a good selection of combined materials for starting a new garden.  

By using organic materials, you are increasing the number of microorganisms in the soil, which result in increased resistance to diseases. They also balance the ph level and provide a continuous supply of nutrients for the plants.

Another benefit is that it improves the tilth of the soil, which improves drainage and maintains soil temperature. In short, plants thrive in composted soil.  

Next, you will need to ensure that the PH balance of your soil is as close to neutral as possible. A neutral soil has a PH balance of 7.0. If you're not sure what your PH balance is, you can purchase a PH kit at most garden centers. They are inexpensive, easy to use, and very accurate. If your soil is too acidic, simply add garden lime to your soil. If it is too alkaline, add ground sulfur. A good rule of thumb is that soils west of the Mississippi are usually alkaline; east of the Mississippi are generally acidic. One point of interest, gardens high in organic matter seldom need PH adjustment; another strong argument for organically amended soil.  

Once you have planted, make sure you mulch with shredded bark, straw, or shredded leaves. Mulch helps maintain a constant soil temperature and reduces the need for watering. It also prevents many weed seeds from germinating.  

Finally, read as many publications and books as possible on gardening. The one book I always recommend to new gardeners is "Square Foot Gardening" by Mel Bartholomew. It is a great reference book on every facet of gardening, including soil preparation, raised beds, intensive planting methods, and basic characteristics and requirements of the more popular vegetables.  

I hope this information proves beneficial.  Please let me know if I can be of further assistance.  

Regards,  

Mike