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Many people enjoy designing attractive landscapes around their homes. These areas may be dominated by lawns, trees, shrubs, flowers, or vegetable gardens. To protect the financial and time demands of these efforts, gardeners must first understand the specific soil conditions in their yard. How well does the soil hold (or drain) water? Is it sandy or mostly clay? What is the soil chemistry? Determining the alkalinity or acidity of the soil – measured as pH – is also key. Understanding these basics, is essential before plant selections are made or landscape designs are implemented. As a garden progresses, the gardener needs to know about fertilizer needs, weed, insect and disease control options, efficient watering plans, and other care strategies. These gardening decisions will ultimately affect, and possibly alter, garden soils over time. Planning for your garden ahead of time will save you money and effort in the future by ensuring that your soils improve ov