In gardening, there are no shortcuts. Soil preparation is laborious and time-consuming. It is also the most important task you will undertake when planting your dream garden. The goal of soil preparation is to establish loose, fertile soil that drains quickly. Good drainage means the roots get adequate moisture without becoming waterlogged.
Soggy soil prevents oxygen from getting to root systems, causing plants to drown.
Never work the soil after a rain storm. Wet earth is too easily compacted, making it difficult to establish good drainage. The soil should be moist enough that you can form it into a small ball, but not so wet that the ball doesn't easily break apart into smaller pieces. Start your new garden by removing grass or other unwanted vegetation. Don't use a rotary tiller to till the sod into the earth.