But before you start digging in, pause and pay attention to your dirt ... finely chopped leaves (captured in your lawn mower bag) into your garden to improve the soil’s texture.

When is soil more than just dirt? When you want to grow healthy plants ... and aged or composted animal manures improve the soil by making its texture and drainage more conducive to plant health.

Plant Residues: Fallen leaves ... components determines soil texture, fertility, water-holding capacity, and nutrient availability. By understanding the composition of dirt, gardeners and land ...