Digging Deep- Getting your Soil prepped in april

Whether you’re planting lush flower beds or a bountiful veggie patch, success starts

below the surface. April is the perfect time to prepare your soil for the growing season

ahead. And we’re here to help you dig smarter, not harder. A little time spent amending

and nourishing your soil now can pay off in healthier plants, better blooms, and bigger

harvests later.

Let’s dig into the key steps to prepping your garden soil the right way—featuring some

of our favorite Coast of Maine organic soils and composts.

Step 1: Clear, Loosen & Turn the Soil

Start by removing any weeds or leftover plant debris from last season. Then loosen

compacted soil with a garden fork or tiller. Turning the soil helps improve drainage and

makes it easier for roots to grow deep and strong.

Pro Tip: Avoid working the soil if it’s still too wet. Grab a handful and squeeze—if it

crumbles easily, you’re good to go!

Step 2: Test Your Soil pH

Soil pH affects how nutrients are absorbed by plants. Most vegetables and flowers

prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH (between 6.0 and 7.0). You can use a simple at-

home soil test kit to check your pH level.

If your soil is too acidic, add lime.

If it’s too alkaline, add elemental sulfur or peat moss.

Knowing your soil’s pH allows you to tailor your amendments for better results.

Step 3: Add Compost; Organic Matter

Healthy soil is alive—with beneficial microbes, organic matter, and nutrients. Adding

compost in April jumpstarts fertility and improves soil texture, moisture retention, and

drainage.

Why We Love Coast of Maine Garden Soils:

Coast of Maine products are crafted with premium compost, sustainably sourced

ingredients, and tailored blends for every garden need:

 Bar Harbor Blend Organic Potting Soil – Perfect for containers and raised

beds.

 Schoodic Blend Cow Manure Compost – Adds organic richness to your veggie

garden.

 Lobster Compost (Quoddy Blend) – Packed with calcium and slow-release

nutrients.

 Penobscot Blend Planting Mix – Ideal for new garden beds, trees, and shrubs.

Each bag is loaded with nutrients and organic matter to bring your soil to life—naturally.

Available now in-store—ask us which blend is right for your garden goals!

Step 4: Feed the Soil, Not Just the Plants

In addition to compost, consider using an organic slow-release fertilizer to ensure your

soil stays fertile throughout the season. Look for blends that include beneficial

mycorrhizae and micronutrients to support root health and resilience.

You can mix these into the top few inches of soil or apply as a side dressing once you

plant.

Step 5: Mulch & Wait (Just a Little)

Once your soil is prepped, you might want to mulch lightly to suppress weeds and

protect your soil until planting day arrives. If you're direct-sowing seeds, hold off on

mulching until after germination.

Ready to Get Growing?

We’ve stocked up on Coast of Maine garden soils and composts to help you kick off

the season with confidence. Whether you’re growing tomatoes or tulips, good soil is

everything—and we’ve got just what you need to build it.

Stop in today for expert advice, top-quality soil products, and everything else your

garden needs to thrive this spring!