When the surface of the bed is dry, aerating the soil helps. When loosened, it can absorb more air and moisture. At the same time, any weeds should be removed as well. Sandy soils, in particular, often lack in humus and minerals such as chalk. For this reason, soil conditioners and fertilisers should be incorporated into the soil while aerating it in order to compensate for any deficiencies and to make the earth fertile. Finely crumbled and loosened soil offer freshly germinating seeds better conditions for growth.
Crumbling the soil in the bed after a downpour helps it to retain the moisture for longer.