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Hi,
I was digging in the garden, trying to prepare a spot of for a plant and came across a layer of this thing, which I'm not sure what it is.
They are pretty hard though I can break them into chunks with a pick. Anyone know what they are?
Hello @wellz
It appears you have uncovered iron-rich hardpan or lateritic nodules in your soil. These materials form naturally when iron (and sometimes aluminium) in the soil oxidises, creating very hard, reddish–orange, rock-like masses. Garden soils often contain pockets of this material a little below the topsoil, especially in areas with clay or where water regularly moves through the ground. It is not harmful, but it can make digging difficult and may affect drainage.
If you want to plant in that spot, you can usually break it up enough to improve root penetration or shift the planting hole slightly. If you find a continuous, thick layer, it may help to loosen it more extensively or choose plants tolerant of shallow or compacted soils.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
