It is advisable to have a nutrient test run in addition to a pH test, where this situation exists. In addition to applying a commercial fertilizer, it is recommended that animal or poultry manure be rototilled or spaded under before planting, as the best means of increasing the organic matter content of garden soils. Cow, horse or duck manure are to be preferred for garden soils, specially if the manure is well-rotted. Where animal manures cannot be obtained at reasonable cost, peat moss, leaf mold, compost or any other source of organic matter can be added. You could use 2 to 4 bushels per 100 sq.ft. of these materials, depending on soil type.
Organic matter improves all Long Island soils.
It makes sandy soils more retentive of moisture. Composted leaves and vegetable refuse are an excellent source of organic matter. This office will be glad to supply directions for making compost on request. Another source of organic matter is a green manure. These cover crops are seeded in the summer and rototilled when adequate growth is attained.