Master Gardeners are part of a network of not-for-profit associations throughout North America. Members share a common interest – a passion for gardening and a willingness to share (at no cost) environmentally responsible gardening knowledge within their communities. Operating under the umbrella of the British Columbia Master Gardeners, the Thompson Shuswap Master Gardeners chapter was established in 2010 and its members have volunteered 10,000 plus hours throughout the Thompson-Shuswap region.
As the snow melts and temperatures rise, gardeners eagerly anticipate the growing season. One of the most crucial steps to ensure a productive garden is proper soil preparation. Healthy soil sets the foundation for strong plants, increased yields, and reduced maintenance throughout the season.
Many beneficial insects, such as solitary bees, butterflies, and ladybugs rely on plant debris and leaf litter for winter shelter. One of the first steps to spring soil prep is to remove any remaining debris from the previous season. If done too early, it can disturb these pollinators and natural pest controllers before they have emerged. A good rule of thumb is to wait until daytime temperatures consistently reach 10°C (50°F) for at least a week before heavy cleanup, ensuring most overwintering insects have safely emerged.
In colder regions, this may mean delaying full garden preparation until mid to late spring. To support both soil health and biodiversity, clear garden beds in stages — starting with areas you’ll plant first while leaving some sections undisturbed a bit longer. This gradual approach supports a thriving insect population while allowing you to prepare the soil effectively for the growing season.
Before planting, it’s important to understand the composition of your soil. A simple soil test can reveal pH levels, and nutrient deficiencies. Testing kits are available at garden centers, or you can send a sample to a local agricultural extension office for detailed analysis. Your test results will guide you in choosing the right amendments to enhance soil health.
Organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, will enrich the soil by adding nutrients, improving drainage, and enhancing moisture retention. Spread a two-to-three inch layer over your garden beds or gently incorporate it into the topsoil to support beneficial soil organisms. When planning which amendments to add, keep in mind that it is easier to increase soil pH than to lower it. Introduce pH increasing amendments slowly to prevent negative effects on nutrient availability, soil structure, and beneficial microbes.
If you’re starting your garden from scratch and need to improve the soil, we recommend mixing in compost down to a depth of eight inches. For established gardens, use a no-dig approach by leaving the compost on the surface. This minimizes weed seed exposure and preserves the soil structure. Let the worms do the work of incorporating it for you! You can loosen the soil gently with a garden fork or broadfork to improve air circulation and root growth while minimizing disturbance of the seed bank.
It is important to understand how the seed bank, living in the top one-to-two inches of soil, can negatively impact your garden. This is why we recommend no-dig gardening when and where possible. The seed bank contains dormant seeds that will germinate under the right conditions.
Excessive disturbance can trigger these often-unwanted seeds to grow, disrupting desirable plants. To prevent this, avoid over-digging, which can unearth and activate dormant seeds. Instead, gently aerate the soil to promote healthy growth without upsetting its natural balance.
In a climate like Kamloops, applying mulch early in the season helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Choose organic options like shredded leaves, straw, or fire-safe mulches, keeping the mulch a few inches away from plant stems to prevent rot and pests.
By taking these steps in early spring, you’ll create an optimal growing environment for your plants. Healthy soil means healthier plants, fewer issues with pests and disease, and a more enjoyable gardening experience.
Happy planting!
Corrine Giesbrecht is an avid gardener who feels like an imposter, but loves to learn and doesn’t mind failing forward every season. She has a yard where for years she ignored the impact of disturbing the seed bank and created some monster weed problems.