Spaghnum Moss or Sand?

by Gin

The soil in my vegetable garden was crumbly-hard and stayed packed down around the plants.

The garden center told me to add top-soil, but now it stays mucky wet for days before drying out and the plants look terrible.

Now the garden center says to add sand, but the farmer in the next aisle said to add sphagnum moss.

What is your opinion?

Thanks for your time.

Gin


ANSWER:

I think I would go with the farmer, if you can only do one thing. But, adding sand may also help.

It seems like the more organic materials in your garden soil, the better. Sand will help with drainage, while the sphagnum moss will help retain moisture and help condition the soil.

It seems like the garden center should have recommended adding compost in the beginning, instead of top-soil. But it is easy to second-guess, isn't it?

Good luck!