Root system question?

So I found a great spot for 2012and it's got a really good light source, great soil and there is only one problem that im concerned about. About 4" down the soil goes from 40% sand to no sand in the soil. Since the top roots will have plenty of oxygen, will the bottom root system be ok if it's constantly damp?

3waygreatness said:

So I found a great spot for 2012and it's got a really good light source, great soil and there is only one problem that im concerned about. About 4" down the soil goes from 40% sand to no sand in the soil. Since the top roots will have plenty of oxygen, will the bottom root system be ok if it's constantly damp?

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probably not the most ideal medium if its really dense...bring a shovel, dig a hole a foot deep and mix perlite in with the soil

Atleast 9" of porous soil is required for good top root development though they can manage in less if planted from seed. If you expect the roots to come to the surface then you should mulch them with lots and lots of dry biomass (leaves, hay, paper etc.) other wise they will resist direct sunlight and not come sufficiently close to the surface. The bottom roots are just to give support to the plant and don't require much care.

That is perfect. I can easily make 9" of good draining soil. This year should go very well! Thanks for the info!

make raised beds