After a long winter, it’s finally time to get my home garden in good shape. While I’m thrilled to grow all kinds of herbs and vegetables this year—think basil, Roma tomatoes, and bell peppers— there’s one gardening task that always frustrates me: breaking up compacted soil.
It’s no secret that harsh winter weather can take a toll on garden soil. After months of cold temperatures and bouts of snow, soil becomes hard and loaded with rocks and debris. Taking the time to revive it is key to help your plants thrive, so you can enjoy a successful growing season. Fixing the issue is such a labor-intensive task, though.
While it’s a good idea to have basic tools like a good shovel, garden fork, and hand cultivator to get the job done, I was surprised to discover that some Redditors swear by using a cat litter scoop to break up chunky garden soil.
“Smart idea!,” one Reddit user shared. Another even recommended using a metal litter scoop, rather than a plastic design, which might not hold up as well over time. And the best part? You can buy one for just $10!
If you ask us, this simple gardening hack is worth a try. Loosening clumpy soil will give your plants the oxygen they need to grow and it also helps with water absorption. What’s more, it makes it easier for fertilizer to reach your plants’ roots.
Anything you can do to maintain your soil’s health is a good idea, and it’s even better when you don’t have to break the bank.
Monique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand's home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, "What's in My Cart."
