Soil & Fertilizer
Adding compost to your soil is one of the best ways to improve your garden. Make a compost pile from a mixture of organic matter—such as leaves, grass clippings, vegetable scraps, eggshells, and coffee grounds. Turn the pile once a week with a pitchfork to introduce oxygen, and keep it covered with plastic to hold in moisture and heat. Adding worms to the pile speeds up the process.
Ask most any gardener whether they prefer organic or chemical fertilizer, and chances are you’ll spark a lively debate. Even though both contain needed nutrients, there are significant differences between them in terms of the long-term effects on soil, plants, and the environment. Read on to find out why.
Simply put, fertilizers are like vitamin supplements for plants. When used properly, they can treat plant “malnutrition” and promote rapid growth and blooming. When used improperly, however, they can be harmful to both plants and the environment, so it’s helpful to understand the basics of fertilizer makeup and application in order to choose wisely.
Barbara asks, “Many years ago I used gypsum pellets to break up clay soil. We can not find them anymore but the problem of the hard packed clay soil still exists. Is there a different product that will solve this problem?”
Applying mulch to your garden or foundation planting beds is a great way to prevent weeds, retain moisture, enrich the soil, and add visual appeal. Read this article to find out the pros and cons of each of the many types of mulch available, from wood chips to pine straw to bark.
Creating great soil is like making good lasagna according to Florida landscaper Rachel DeToro. It’s all about layers. Not pasta and cheese. Organic material on top of organic material.
The potassium in wood ashes encourages strong stems in plants while the phosphorus in the ashes encourages root growth. Soils low in potassium often benefits from wood ash but be careful with acid-loving plants such as blueberries, rhododendrons and azaleas. To use wood ash safely, add a small amount to your compost pile.
Even the most novice gardeners know the benefits of using compost in their gardens, but nobody wants to look at a compost pile. One solution is a pre-fab compost bin made of plastic.
