Soil Basics for Pacific Northwest Landscapes

Soil might not be the most exciting part of your landscape, but it’s one of the most important. Here in Maple Valley, soils are shaped by rain, forests, and glaciers — which means they can range from rich and loamy to rocky and stubborn.

Common Soil Challenges:

  • Too Much Clay: Poor drainage, especially during the rainy season.

  • Not Enough Nutrients: Typical in sandy or disturbed construction soils.

  • Acidic pH: Common in forested areas — great for rhododendrons and blueberries, less ideal for veggies without amendments.

Quick Solutions:

  • Test your soil to find out what you’re working with.

  • Add organic material each season to improve texture and fertility.

  • Use native plants that have evolved to thrive in our local soil conditions.

Healthy soil is the foundation of a healthy landscape. Spend a little time on it now, and your yard will thank you all year long.

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