All About Soil
NORTHERN GARDENER MAGAZINE
Soil health resources
Healthy soil grows healthy plants. Without it, our gardens don’t exist. Surprisingly, only 7% of our planet’s topsoil is suitable for growing food. Fortunately, we’ve collected all the info you need to achieve the healthiest soil ever, no matter how small your gardening space may be.
- Hügelkultur is Heating Up →
- Living Soil, Healthy Garden (6 tips for healthy soil) →
- Using Soil Temperature to Decide When to Plant →
- Soil Blocking Basics →
- What is a Soil Amendment? →
Don’t have the issue yet? Find it here or at your local newsstand.


What texture is your soil?
Sand, clay or a little of both? This helpful guide from the Colorado State University Extension will help you get to the bottom of your soil.

Understanding Soil Health webinar
Bob Dahm (Organic Bob) covers why soil should be your first consideration in starting any new garden in this hourlong video.

University of Minnesota Soil Testing Lab
Ready to see what makes up your soil? Get the instructions on submitting your soil to the U of M Extension.
Need help understanding the results? We’ve got you covered!
Best Books for Building Soil
View our rundown of the best books here.
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