Originally Posted by HeyWayne

I think spuds will help break up the ground, and with the combination of earthing up and the foliage from teh plants, should help keeps weeds to a minimum. Make sure you add plenty of organic matter - compost, manure anything you can get your hands on (though you might want to wash them afterwards) to help improve the soil structure.

Lots of people use cardboard to cover ground that won't be used immediately, covered with compost or grass clippings it has the added benefit that it will break down over time meaning you don't have to dig it out when you come to use the land. Carpets and tarpaulin can be a bugger to get out of the ground if left for a considerable time.

Clay soil does have benefits - it is better during dry spells at retaining water and moister, you can improve it even further by using a mulch to keep as mych water in as possible.

Soil is also a bit like hair. Those with curly hair want straight hair, those with straight hair want curly hair. People with sandy soil would love clay soil and vice versa.

Funny old world innit.

Good luck.