Soil

I have a big problem with my clay soil.

I have spent the past 5 years trying to improve the soil but to date  still no joy.

Can anyone give me good advise on how to improve my soil.

Lots of advice here

http://www.gardenersworld.com/forum/problem-solving/problem-clay-soil/2061.html

Unless you have laods of money to pay for man power, grit and organic material to break up the soil and improve its texture, you're going to have to be patient.   You can go round with a large tined fork poking it into the soil as deeply as you can, wiggling it back and ofrth and then pour sharp sand down the holes to improve drainage and aeration.    Annual mulching in autumnw ith a few inches of well rotted garden comost and/or manure will also help.  The worms will work it in over winter and, in time, you'll end up with lovely soil.

There's another thread about clay soil and teratment advice here - http://www.gardenersworld.com/forum/problem-solving/problem-clay-soil/2061.html

You really need lots and lots of compost, manure, grit and sharp sand.

How is your soil used? A book i have recommends growing things in it to break it up. I know that can be easier said than done with clay soil, but having dug in plenty of organic material last autumn I'll be filling in all the gaps in my border with annuals this year. On the plus side clay soil is supposed to be very fertile, and there are some plants that like it.

We're also cheating and putting in a raised bed for veggies.