Compost and mulch are probably the best (and cheapest) things you can do to improve your soil. Mulch is chipped or shredded tree bark. Many municipalities have free mulch available at their recycling centers. I prefer shredded hardwood mulch. Mulch can be spread around trees and in flowerbeds. Mulch helps to retain moisture and suppresses weeds.
Compost is something you can produce in your own backyard and will revitalize your garden. To start a compost pile, you need some kind of container. Some people use 55 gallon drums; some make three sided 'bin' to; some buy commercial compost containers. All you do is add grass clippings, leaves, kitchen scraps, manure, shavings, and other "waste" materials. Occaisionally, you need to add water and "stir" your compost. You can set up your compost post bin in the center of your garden and grow up your plants around it.
But, what is "no till"?
As farms get smaller, and more families get back to basics, people are learning about "no till" farming and gardening techniques. Despite conventional wisdom, no till is out producing conventional farms. No till means the seeds are drilled or put directly into the soil without plowing. Because your beds are composted and mulched, soil is not compacted. The soil is full of worms and helpful microorganisms that promote healthy plant growth. Farmers in Central and South America have been using this technique with astounding results.
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