This webinar, led by Melanie Stock, an urban and small firm extension specialist for Utah State, delves into the critical role of soil organic matter for garden health. Stock, a soil scientist, emphasizes two key "Garden C's": compost and cover crops, as primary methods for increasing organic matter. She discusses the natural organic matter levels in Utah soils compared to other regions and outlines the numerous benefits of healthy soil, including improved structure, nutrient retention, and water infiltration. The presentation also touches on various materials that can be added to soil to boost organic matter, such as plant residues, mulches, and even some wood products, while cautioning against the use of wood ash in Utah.