How To Loosen Hard-Packed Dirt Before Rototilling

Question From: t. rankin - CALIFORNIA
Q: whats the best way to loosen hardpack dirt before rototilling

A:

Moisten the clay a day or two before starting. It should be moist but not sodden. If it is too wet you will make it worse. Use a pick-ax to break it up. Sprinkle some sort of organic material over the chunks before roto tilling. I use a bark based soil conditioner by Fafard along with compost and shredded autumn leaves. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy.