Is there something that we could mix in with the soil in our back yard to help it drain and not stay wet? Rose Hendrixson of Tennessee, USA

We have a condo and a small yard in the back with a privacy fence. The space is about 20 x 40 feet. We have a problem in that behind the fence are large trees that shade our yard. When it rains the ground takes a long time to dry out. I fear that plants we put in there may stay too wet. Is there something that we could mix in with the soil to help it drain and not stay wet? I was thinking sawdust or sand or something that drains well. Thank you for any advice
Forum (Hugh): You must NOT mix sawdust with your soil, because the soil bacteria will use all the available nitrogen in the soil to break down the sawdust. This will make the plants go yellow, because they also need the nitrogen. As your yard is small, you could construct beds above the soil level with timber boards six inches wide (deep) to hold the soil. The paths could be on a lower level, thus taking the soil from the path to put into the bed, mix with garden compost well rotted, or bought from the garden centre. Allow the plant roots to root into the damp soil.
Forum (Brian): I agree with Hugh’s comments 100%, although you might use it as a surface mulch. First lay a weed retarding woven permeable fabric on the soil surface to prevent contact with the soil. Some authorities recommend a dressing in the spring with Sulphate of Ammonia to overcome the nitrogen loss, but there is still a risk. There is also a high risk of spreading Honey Fungus or Boot Lace Fungus. Both comments can also be laid at the door of bark A coarse sand could be used to good effect- add at about 20% by volume If the trees roots infiltrate the soil lay a weed retarding woven permeable fabric sheet 15 to 18 inches below the soil as well.
Forum (Fiona):Hi Hugh – Tennessee is hot in summer, cold in winter, and humid. Probably heavy clay. Raised beds should work.