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Best way to break up heavy compacted clay?

monkey_nuts_2006I1p8ddc2monkey_nuts_2006I1p8ddc2 Posts: 1
in Problem solving
Hello,

I am looking to break up heavy compacted clay. When dry it's like concrete. What are the best tools to use?

Thank you

Peter

Posts

  • CloggieCloggie Posts: 1,457
    Water.  Wait until it's damp, after rain, don't tackle it when it's dry.  Once damp, chuck organic matter on it in large amountsif you are hoping to plant it up (recycled council compost is cheapest) or if you are just removing it then a mechanical digger would be a good tool to use.  You're right, dry clay is impenetrable to a spade and a human foot! 😁
  • FireFire Posts: 19,096
    This is a good article.
  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    If it's a piece of ground you want to cultivate for planting, adding organic matter is the way to go.
    Leave a layer on it over winter, and it will be much easier to work with, and the extra leaf mould/manure/compost etc will help the ground to stay in better condition in future, as it breaks the clay up and makes it more manageable. 
    If you just want to break it up just now, wait until it's damp as already said, but adding to it will still make a far better structure for the future. Clay is an excellent growing medium, but far better when it's got some help   :)
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
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