THE 40 
GARDEN YARD 
that surface loosening which enables the soil 
to drink in the rain and withstand the heat of 
the sun. The loosened surface will not cake 
about the plants, and it makes a layer of mulch 
for the protection of the under soil. 
By the addition of humus, or vegetable 
matter, a clayey soil may be put in condition 
so that it will respond to further tillage as 
satisfactorily as the lighter, sandy loam. This 
is the way to “ counterfeit the best soil.” 
Humus is added by plowing into the land 
vegetable matter which is in condition to rot 
quickly and become thoroughly mixed with the 
soil. Rye, clover, cornstalks, vines or other 
garden waste, and manure, are commonly 
used. Manure that contains a large proportion 
of stable litter and sweepings, and street sweep- 
ings, are especially rich in humus, and are much 
sought after by experienced gardeners. By 
adding them, the texture of the soil is lightened 
and improved, made loose and mellow so as to 
hold moisture, and is at the same time pre- 
vented from caking. Moreover, humus contains 
plant food and heat that make seed sprouting 
easy. 
The amateur gardener seldom recognizes the 
importance of the physical texture of the soil, 
but the best results demand the best conditions. 
