Hi,

my front bed is very much clay. I have incorporated a fair amount of grit
(leftover stuff from building a past rockery) and planted into this bed.
However, the clay still predominates and pooling of water is occurring.
The previous occupant of my house grew lavender very successfully in this
bed, which had to be removed due to repair and redecoration of the front of
the house. So I have replanted lavender vera and a few pansies in between
to give a bit of colour until the lavender grows larger.
However, one lavender plant has already died!

I am limited with cost here so don't want to buy bags and bags of compost to
incorporate. My homemade compost (and there was lots) has gone into the
back garden and is doing wonders!

What can I dig into the clay, around the plants, which is of a reasonable
cost and will help to break up the clay to avoid the pooling of water.

Any advice would be welcome.

Jo