Soil challenges come in many forms, and the solutions aren’t always obvious. In this interactive Q&A webinar, hosts Carol Collins and Kirsten Kurtz will explore strategies for dealing with some of the toughest situations: compaction (including the added difficulty of clay soils), stress from heat and salts near sidewalks and streets, recently disturbed ground after construction, soils with low organic matter (including sandy soils), and how to best care for soil in the root zones of trees, shrubs, and perennials. Along the way, they’ll also touch on how to know when a plant problem isn’t soil-related and where to turn for specialized diagnostic help.
If you have questions about how to improve your soil, make sure to submit them ahead of time to [email protected]. We’ll be taking questions live, but are happy to have some ahead of time, too.
Hosts: Carol Collins and Kirsten Kurtz
Date & Time: January 16th, 2026, 9am EST
 |
About Kirsten Kurtz Kirsten is the Assistant Director of the Cornell Soil Health Lab, where she helps growers and gardeners interpret soil tests and improve management strategies. With a master’s degree in Natural Resources and the Environment from Cornell, she specializes in assessing and remediating degraded soils. She’s also known for her innovative soil paintings, artworks made from natural soil pigments that celebrate both the beauty and importance of healthy soils. |
Fine Gardening Recommended Products
Gardzen 3-Pack 72 Gallons Garden Bag
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
High Quality Fabric – Gardzen Garden Waste Bags are made from 4.4oz/yd2 (150g/㎡) durable polypropylene fabric that can withstand heavy loads and rough handling. Please note that they should not be left out in the sun for long periods. Environmentally Friendly – These reusable yard waste bags are an environmentally friendly choice as they can be used over and over again, unlike disposable bags. The strong handles make it easy to carry the bags, even when they are full. These garden bags for debris allow you to complete your gardening tasks efficiently and effectively, while minimising waste and promoting sustainability. Large Capacity – With a height of 30 inches and a diameter of 26 inches, there is plenty of room for a large amount of garden waste. Whether it’s leaves, branches or grass clippings, these yard waste containers can handle it all. A Must-Have For Gardeners – these leaf bags are an essential tool for managing garden waste and can make your gardening tasks much more efficient. The large capacity and durable construction make them ideal for storing and transporting various items. The yard bags can also be folded and stored compactly when not needed, saving valuable space.
Package Included – A great value set of 3pcs heavy duty lawn and leaf bags. 3pcs white plastic hoops. There are 2pcs double stitched webbing handles in the top and 1pc strong webbing corner handles in the bottom.
Razor-Back Potato/Refuse Hook
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Gardena 3103 Combisystem 12-Inch To 20-Inch Adjustable Metal Fan Rake Head
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
With adjustable tine spacing: suitable for raking coarse and fine material. Flexible, zinc-plated spring-steel prongs. Working width adjustable from 12-20 inches. Sold as head only, handle sold separately.