Recovering from Tilling Wet Clay Soil

Tilling wet clay destroys soil structure, creating hard clods that impede roots. The damage is reversible.

Recovery Steps

1. Wait until soil is dry enough to crumble into pea-to-golf-ball-sized aggregates.
2. Re-till to break up clods.
3. Incorporate 2–3 inches of compost or fine bark during the second tillage.
4. Test pH and adjust before planting.

Prevention

• Squeeze a handful: if it forms a ribbon >1 inch, it's too wet.
• Ideal tillage moisture: soil crumbles, doesn't smear.

One mistake won't ruin the garden; patience and organic matter fix it.