Reading your soil: a gentle guide
Good gardens begin below the surface. Squeeze a handful of damp soil: if it forms a loose ball that crumbles under a light touch, you are in good shape. If it stays a sticky lump, it is heavy with clay; if it falls apart at once, it is sandy.
Feeding the soil
Compost is the simplest gift you can give a bed. Spread two fingers of finished compost in early spring and again after harvest. Mulch with straw or leaves to keep moisture in and weeds down.
Avoid digging more than you need to. Earthworms and fungi build structure for you when left alone.