I went out and bought a bag of compost. I'd like to make my own, but am working on getting the materials together.
Anyway, when I dug trenches around my vegatables...The soil is extremely clay like. I mean it took me an hour to dig a 2" deep circle around my bell peppers. I imagine this is one reason they are growing so slowly.
I swear I could of molded a clay pot out of the stuff! I had to chisel it off my spade every 5 minutes. It is black, but it is really clay like.
How can I improve the soil?
When you plant things, how much should you be packing down the dirt?
I usually just make a fist and gently push down around the plant. Perhaps I shouldn't pack it at all?
How often should I be watering in 90-100 degree temps?