Using a fork, loosen the soil remaining in the garden bed to the depth of the tines. Break up large clods, remove stones, and clean out any weeds or roots. Spread several inches of compost over the soil and turn it in thoroughly with the fork. Shovel the amended topsoil on top of the bed, and rake the surface until smooth and level. An easy texture test.
Soil contains three components that determine texture sand, silt, and clay.
To analyze texture, place a cup of soil in a jar and fill with water. The thickness of the layers indicates the proportion of particles. Dig in generous amounts up to 25 percent by volume when preparing planting areas, and add 1 inch of it each year to garden beds. Spread it at the manufacturer s recommended rate. Heavy soil needs more material than sandy soil.