Category: Soils & Plant Nutrients

Kelp vs Seaweed: Best Uses and Differences

What is the difference between kelp vs seaweed? And why are they used as fertilizer? Isn’t kelp seaweed? What form should I pick (seaweed powder or liquid extract)? I ask myself all those questions when I look at the different organic and/or natural fertilizers available in the gardening market.

I’ll try to answer all those questions in the next lines in the hopes you may choose better about kelp and seaweed with information on your side.

Kelp vs Seaweed – Is There Any Difference?

Seaweed is a word used to name many species of aquatic plants, specifically oceanic ones (hence the sea- prefix). Seaweeds can grow like underwater forests, kelp beds (a type of brown seaweed) cover up to 25% of the world’s coastlines. Seaweeds create ecosystems that can host thousands of other sea creatures such as plankton, seals, fish, jellyfish, and more. Phytoplankton is also considered seaweed because of its immense growth potential.

Seaweed is a term that includes many types of algae, including kelp. Seaweeds grow in many marine environments (oceans, rivers, or lakes), but especially kelp, grows in shallow and cool saltwater along rocky coastlines.

Some of these seaweeds are even called sea vegetables because they’re edible to humans. For example, nori algae (used by the Japanese in sushi and other traditional dishes), dulse, kombu, and wakame. Some seaweeds are medicinal and used mostly to treat skin problems. For more info on seaweeds and kelp, click here to open the National Ocean Service.

Seaweed	Kelp
Include many types of algae red, brown, and green.	Brown type of seaweed
Grown in many marine environments	Only grows in saltwater, along rocky coastlines in depts of 6 to 90 ft. deep
Many different sizes, some of which are microscopic	Large size
Used as a liquid fertilizer from natural seaweed sources	Used as a natural fertilizer and source of trace minerals and usually mixed with fish meal
	Can be found in powder or liquid kelp

GS Plant Foods Organic Liquid Kelp Fertilizer

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Kelp as a Garden Fertilizer

But how does kelp or seaweed help my garden soil and veggies? On the beaches, these plants prevent sand erosion and maintain the ecosystem healthy by feeding animals, as well as providing shelter.

In the garden, kelp and seaweed turned out to be great fertilizers for any kind of plant/soil nutrition deficiencies. Seaweed is not particularly high in nitrogen or phosphorous, but they contain up to 60 different minerals which are micronutrients (trace elements) for plant health promotion. It also has pest-deterring properties. Pets don’t like the smell of it, which results in keeping them away from the garden.

Seaweeds, including kelp, certainly amend nutrient-depleted soils and improves structure, and water retention rates ultimately end up decomposing, and in the process, they add organic matter to your garden beds, pots, composts, or other fermented fertilizers.

Learn more about How To Use Kelp Meal Fertilizer

Neptune’s Harvest Organic Hydrolized Fish and Seaweed Fertilizer

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Foraging Seaweed for Fertilizer

If you forage kelp or other seaweeds for fertilizers, follow these tips for better results.

Collect only from the coastlines below the high tide mark, in small quantities, and only what you need.
Know that there’s no need to wash the salt away, it contains minerals and nutrients.
Cut the plants by hand or with grass scissors. Sometimes they hide small stones, sand, or even shells.
Use fresh or dry, both ways are equally nutritious to the soil.
Apply over your garden beds, under the mulch, and in your compost.
If you buy it, it comes available in powder and liquid extracts, and different concentrations. Choose the best suitable for your project. Liquid extract for hydroponic systems seems like a great idea. Seaweed powder is more suitable for growing beds, and pots, and as a compost improver.

For more useful tips and info regarding seaweeds as fertilizers, I recommend the article Seaweed Fertilizer — Using and Composting Seaweed for Your Garden.

Kelp Nutrition Data

When it comes to kelp, you may be wondering what the nutrition data is like. In every two tablespoons of kelp, it contains the following:

calories: 43
fat: 1g
sodium: 233mg
carbohydrate: 10g
dietary fiber: 1g
sugar: 1g
protein: 2g

The following percentages are how much it’ll be as part of your daily recommended intake:

vitamin C: 3%
iron: 17%
calcium: 13%
vitamin A: 2%

The following are all 0%: magnesium, vitamin D, vitamin B6, and cobalamin

Nutrition Value of Seaweed

You may also be curious about the nutritional value of seaweed. Every cup of seaweed (which is around 15g), contains the following:

calories: 45
fat: 1g
carbohydrate: 8g
dietary fiber: 1g
protein: 5g

The following percentages are how much it’ll be as part of your daily recommended intake:

folate: 13%
copper: 56%
iron: 21%
riboflavin: 22%
thiamin: 15%
magnesium: 17%

All You Need to Know: Kelp

You may be wondering everything you need to know about kelp when it comes to gardening. Let’s take a closer look.

Kelp isn’t usually used on its own as a fertilizer, it’s most often mixed with other ingredients, such as fish, to promote plant growth. Kelp is used because it’s packed full of micronutrients, which make for a great environment for plants to thrive. Kelp fertilizer can usually be found as a liquid or as a powder.

What many gardens love about kelp is that it’s an organic product, that’s packed full of goodness. As well as helping your plants to thrive, it’s also good for the environment.

To use kelp fertilizer, all you need to do is spray it onto the leaves of your plants. Results can be seen fairly quickly; in around a day or two.

All You Need to Know: Seaweed

Now we know all there is to know about kelp, you may be wondering the same for seaweed in gardening. Let’s take a closer look.

To make seaweed fertilizer, the sea water is usually rinsed and then left to ferment with regular water. Over time, the seaweed will decompose and you’ll be left with a fertilizer to use. Seaweed fertilizer most often comes in liquid form.

The benefits of seaweed are much the same as the benefits of kelp. However, as well as this, they can last in extreme environments and are a hardy fertilizer.

To use seaweed fertilizer, simply spread it around your plants – it is that easy!

Health Benefits of Kelp

When it comes to kelp, as well as being good for your plants, it’s also extremely good for your body too! Let’s see some of the health benefits of kelp.

Sea Kelp is Full of Vitamins. Iron, Magnesium, and Vitamin A – sea kelp is bursting with goodness. This goodness can help to keep your eyes, bones, and even your immune system at its best!
Helps with Hair Loss. Kelp is known for containing iodine. And iodine is known for aiding with things like hair loss.
Lower Cholesterol. A study found that kelp can even help your cholesterol levels.

Health Benefits of Seaweed

As well as kelp being good for your body, so is seaweed. Let’s see some of the health benefits seaweed has to offer.

Contains Iodine. Without iodine, thyroid problems may occur – and seaweed is full of iodine!
Good for Gut Health. Seaweed can help replenish the good bacteria your gut needs. And a healthy gut is a happy gut.
Weight Loss Aid. Seaweed can help you feel fuller for longer and doesn’t contain many calories at all.

Conclusion: Kelp vs Seaweed

If you use kelp or any seaweed as fertilizer, there are a few things to consider:

You may forage it in small quantities, always trimming the submerged parts of the seaweed, and avoid collecting it from the beach.
Notice that seaweed foraging may be an illegal practice in your region.

If you liked this post about kelp vs seaweed, and find it useful, please share it with your friends and leave your comments below. We love to read your feedback. And remember, sharing is caring!

FAQs

Is kelp the same as seaweed fertilizer?

No, kelp is not seaweed fertilizer. Kelp is a type of alga (one of the plant kingdom) that can be found in salt water.

It is used for various purposes including fertilizer and food. In fact, it’s one of the most popular seafood supplements out there. Kelp is also commonly known as seaweed because of its similarity to the plant life that grows on land. However, kelp has more in common with plants than seaweed.

It is often referred to as “kelp” or “rockweed” since it is so similar to the plant life on land. There are different types of kelp. One of the most common varieties is Alaria esculenta (macroalgae) which is a type of red algae. This variety is the main source of nutrition for people who consume kelp supplements. Another variety of kelp is Laminaria digitata, which is a type of brown algae. These two types of kelp are found in coastal areas. One of the reasons that people use kelp is because it is a natural source of vitamins and minerals. It’s also a great source of iron and iodine. Kelp contains an abundance of vitamins, minerals and proteins.

Is kelp a good fertilizer?

Yes it is a good fertilizer. It is a very good source of nitrogen (N) which is needed by plants. The nitrogen is released as ammonia.

This is then used by the plant for photosynthesis. It is also a good source of potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), and phosphorous (P). There are a few problems with kelp though. The biggest problem is that kelp takes a long time to decompose. It can take anywhere from 2 to 10 years. This is because it contains cellulose, which is a natural organic compound.

The cellulose breaks down in soil over time, releasing nutrients. Another problem with kelp is that it tends to build up in rivers and streams.

If you want to use kelp as a fertilizer for your lawn, then it may work well. Kelp contains a lot of nitrogen. However, this nitrogen is locked away inside the plant. You would have to apply the kelp to the soil at least 3 times before the nitrogen gets released into the soil. The other problem is that the kelp is not easy to spread out on the lawn. It needs to be shredded first before it can be applied to the lawn. DKelp is just one more ingredient to add to your fertilizer bag. You should look at what else you can add to your fertilizer to get the most nutrients into your lawn.

Is seaweed the best fertilizer?

Seaweed is the most widely used organic fertilizer. It is used to fertilize the soil, but not the plants. It is used as a source of nitrogen and potassium in the soil. The application rate of seaweed is 1-3% in the soil depending on the type of seaweed. It is very effective for the growth of vegetables because it is rich in potassium and nitrogen, which are very important for plant growth. It is also very effective in controlling the weeds.

March 2, 2023

Disadvantages Worm Castings: Uses, Benefits and Drawbacks
Worms, especially earthworms, have proven to be more useful to human lives when we started acknowledging their contributions through their environmental and commercial applications.
Through time and research, many technologies have been developed involving our humble ally – worms – like vermi meal production, vermiculture, vermicomposting, and more. But one of the most interesting discoveries about worms is worm casting.
To understand it better, we have put together below the definition, uses, and disadvantages of worm castings, along with other useful information related to this topic.
What is Worm Casting?
Worm casting is the organic waste that went out the rear end of an earthworm – yes, it’s basically worm poop. But if you want the official scientific jargon, you can refer to it as a “fecal nugget”. It is mostly used as fertilizer because of its rich nutritional content.
Some people call it the multivitamins for plants because worm castings are often described as the most potent manure there ever was. Here are some of the nutrients you can find in worm castings aside from the main nutrients your plants need: phosphorus, nitrogen, zinc, iron, potassium, and concentrated nitrates.
Like in the human body, worm castings consist of good bacteria, and their microbial activity is 20 times greater than their digested soil which effectively supports plant growth.
With its remarkable versatility in vitamins and minerals, you can substitute any nutritional gap you would have in growing any kind of plant you want. The best part is, all the nutrients your plant needs will be consumed immediately as it is water-soluble.
If you have a business that would require a lot of worm castings, there is no need to fret as there are already worm castings out in the market because people actually thought they could grow a business using worms, and they’re absolutely right!
Read more about Worms in Compost: Are they a Friend or a Foe?
Worm Casting vs. Vermicomposting
Worm casting and vermicomposting are often confused as one thing, but technically speaking, they are two related, but different things.
Vermicomposting is how worms help in reducing waste along with other organic wastes (leftover food and composted bedding) and vermicompost is the product of this worm compost system. You know you’ve found high-quality vermicompost when it contains a high percentage of worm castings.
This particular way of composting is very trendy in urban areas these days as it can easily be done even in the comfort of your own home. You can even find a composting bin just big enough to fit under your kitchen sink.
To cut it short, worm castings are pure worm poop while vermicompost cannot exist without worm castings and contains other composted materials. They are both very rich in nutrients and are used to help your plants grow healthy.
Best compost products suppliers on the market today
Uses of Worm Casting
We have listed below some of the most known common uses of worm casting:
- Seed germination
When you mix worm castings with your seed starter it provides the nutrients for new seedlings that boost growth. The new soil mix will hold moisture around the young seedlings providing added protection.
When it’s time to transplant your plants, you may add a cup of worm casting into the soil which would protect them from different diseases for a long time.
- Side dressing
You can choose to either dig deeper or sprinkle this natural fertilizer around your plant. You don’t have to worry about the exact amount because your plant won’t suffer even if you use too much.
If you’re planning on using it for outdoor plants, we suggest putting a handful on all sides of the base and then watering it. This would greatly prevent pests from bringing trouble to your plants. Now for indoor plants, you can use 2-3 tablespoons, depending on size.
- Lawn conditioning
When you use soil for so long, it tends to lose its potency and become barren and it’s your responsibility to rejuvenate it. Adding worm castings is the finest choice as it would greatly help bring back the previous health of your soil.
Worm castings prevent soil from drying out as it makes your soil more absorbent, consistently making moisture available to your plants.
- Liquid fertilizer
Commonly known as “worm-casting tea” but this is definitely not for human consumption. This tea can be diluted with water and you can use it as an alternative for watering your plants. Just steep some worm castings in water like you would when making your own tea to drink.

Strengths and Weaknesses of Worm Casting
As we all know, “there’s always two sides to a coin” so if there are advantages to using worm castings, there are also disadvantages and we have listed both below for you.
Advantages
- Plant superfood – the most obvious advantage of worm casting is its nutrient-packed quality.
- Neutral level of pH – this controls your soil’s acidic condition.
- Protection – worm castings extract harmful toxins, bad bacteria, and fungi; at the same time containing good bacteria and beneficial microbes which help prevent diseases for your plant.
- Natural pest repellent – some pests such as scale insects, aphids, spider mites, and the like do not like the fecal nugget of worms so they avoid it.
- Additional worms for your soil – some worm eggs may be left in your castings, so when those eggs hatch, they will be a great addition to your garden. Worms help break down even heavy metal deposits in your soil making it metal-free and healthy!
Read more about Organic Solution Premium Worm Castings: Natural Nutrient for Plants
Disadvantages
- You will need more fertilizers – worm casting is not enough fertilizer for other plants, especially for some that require macronutrients.
- Not suitable for acid-loving plants – acidic plants would not do well in a neutral pH range.
- It takes time – some casting may take months before it can be used because as we all know, worms are not that big so it takes them a while to produce enough casting.
How Long Does it Take For Worm Castings to Work?
Several factors influence how long it takes for worm castings to work. This includes the type of plants you grow, the soil condition, the application rate, and the method you follow. It can take a few weeks to months before worm castings begin to work.
How Often Should I Harvest Worm Castings?
If you have a worm bin or compost bin where you raise worms, you can harvest their castings on an ongoing basis as needed.
To harvest worm castings, remove the top layer of bedding and compost material from the bin and set it aside. The castings will be in the lower layers. You can then mix the castings into your soil or use them as a top dressing on top of the soil around your plants.
You should try to harvest worm castings every few weeks. As the worms consume the organic matter in the bin, they produce more castings. You’ll have castings available every month.
What is the Ph Level Of Worm Castings?
The pH. of worm castings varies. How acidic they depend on the type of organic materials the worms feed on and the conditions in the worm bin. Generally, worm castings have a neutral to slightly alkaline pH, typically in the range of 6.5-7.5.
It is important to note that the pH of worm castings can be affected by the pH of the materials that the worms were fed, as well as the pH of the water used to moisten the bedding in the worm bin. The pH of worm castings can also be affected by the conditions in the worm bin, including the temperature, moisture level, and ventilation. If the conditions in the worm bin are not optimal, the pH of the castings may be lower or higher than the typical range.
Worm casting is a good source of nutrients for plants. They can also help improve the structure and fertility of the soil. However, if the pH of the worm castings is significantly different from the optimal pH of your plants, you might have to adjust the pH of your soil before using the castings. You can add sulfur or lime to lower or raise the Ph.
Are There Nematodes in Worm Castings?
Nematodes are tiny, thread-like worms found in soil and can be beneficial or harmful to plants, depending on the species. Some nematodes are predatory and can help control pest populations, while others are plant-parasitic and can cause damage to plants.
Worm castings may contain nematodes. These are common in soil and can be present in the organic materials fed to worms. If your worm castings include nematodes, it is unlikely that you have reason to worry.
What Vegetables Like Worm Castings?
Worm castings are a rich source of nutrients and beneficial microbes that can help improve soil health and plant growth. Many veggies will benefit if you add worm castings to their growing environment. These include:
- Leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, and kale
- Cruciferous vegetables, like broccoli, cabbage, and brussels sprouts
- Root vegetables, like carrots, beets, and radishes
- Solanaceous vegetables, like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants
- Legumes, like beans and peas
You should use worm castings in moderation. They can be high in nutrients and may cause damage when applied in excess. I recommend not using more than 10-20% worm castings by volume in your soil mix.
Worm Casting Benefits
When it comes to worm castings, there are many benefits to using them at any point during the growing season. In simple terms, it can help your plants to grow better, improve the retention of water to keep your plants moist, and also protect your plants from any unwanted diseases. Let’s take a more in-depth look at just a few benefits of worm castings.
- Helps Water Retention. Think of worm castings like a sponge. If you’re looking for an easy way to keep your plants and soil moist, worm castings are the way.
- Helps to Reduce Erosion. As worm castings are so great at holding water, this also significantly lowers the chances of soil erosion.
- Improves the CEC. The higher this is, the higher the fertility of your soil.
- Easy Way to Give Nutrients. It can be tricky to ensure your plants receive the correct amount of nutrients, in an accessible way; but worm castings provide just that.
- Helps pH Levels. As their pH level is neutral, they can help to make your soil either more neutral or more acidic; depending on what you’re looking for.
- Aids Structure. Helps to strengthen soils that can be tricky to work with, such as clay or sand.
This is only a small selection of ways worm castings can help your plants and soil, but the list is endless!
Worm Casting Sifter – Which Size is Best?
One of the handiest tools when working with worm castings is a worm-casting sifter. As well as worm castings, it can work with other things in your garden, such as compost. Just like a sieve, it helps to separate products. The size of your sifter depends on what size worms you’re working with. For example, adult worms will need a sifter that’s at least 1/4 inch. However, if you’re using baby worms, you’ll only need around 1/8 inch sifter.
What Color Should Castings Be: Black Worm Castings
You may be wondering what the optimal color of your worm castings should be. The truth is, they should be small, and resemble small footballs. The color should be a deep black. The darker the castings are, the richer the nutrients will be for your plants and soil.
Can You Use Worm Castings and Fertilizer Together?
Of course! It’s suggested that you use them together. They are two different products, that provide different benefits to your plants and soil. Worm castings are mainly used to benefit your soil, while the fertilizer is mainly used on your plants themselves to ensure they have the nutrients they need.
Are Worm Castings Good For Succulents?
Worm castings are perfect for many plants; one of which being succulents. They are very versatile and can be used for many plants. They’re filled with goodness that will aid your succulent plants to grow.
Can I Use Worm Castings During Flowering?
As mentioned, worm castings are extremely versatile. For this reason, they can be used at any point of growth. Whether you want to use them before flowering, or during; you can do so with ease. Whatever the season, whatever the time of year, you can add worm castings to your plants and soil.
How Do You Start a Worm Casting Farm?
Starting a worm-casting farm can be a fun way to produce a valuable soil amendment and reduce waste simultaneously. Here are the basic steps for creating a worm-casting farm:
Materials you’ll need:
- Worms
- Worm or compost bins
- Bedding materials (shredded newspaper, straw, coconut coir)
- Worm food (kitchen scraps)
Follow these steps:
1. Set up your worm bin in a cool location that’s out of direct sunlight.
2. Place a layer of bedding material in the bottom container and add your worms.
3. Add a layer of food on top of the bedding and cover it with another layer of bedding. Keep the bedding moist.
4. Ensure the temperature in your worm bin is between 55-77°F (13-25°C). This will keep the worms healthy.
5. Add food to the bin as needed. You should also turn the bedding and food once or twice a week to provide oxygen to the materials.
6. In a few weeks, there will be worm castings to harvest. You can harvest the castings by scooping them out of the bin.
You can use the worm castings in your garden or sell them to others.
Conclusion: Advantages and Disadvantages Worm Castings
To wrap this up, worm casting truly is one of the most amazing products of nature. It has very easy procedures that produce excellent results. Though there are a few drawbacks when it comes to worm casting, there are more than enough benefits to balance it out.
With that, we hope you have a finer understanding regarding worm casting through this article, enough to help you start your next gardening project. Do you have any tips or tricks when it comes to working with worm castings? If so, please feel free to let me know in the comments below. And remember, sharing is caring!
FAQs
How often should I use worm castings?
You can use worm casting on the top of your soil every month and all through the growing season. Reapplying worm casting monthly to your topsoil will keep your plants looking healthy and exceptional.
Use 0.6ml per 6 inches of worm casting of the container diameter and mix the casting inside your potted plants’ soil. Or you can simply sprinkle 1, 2, or 3 tablespoons of worm casting all over the stem of your potted plants. Water them well after doing this. If you unknowingly applied a bit of extra worm casting, do not worry. It won’t burn or distress your plant.
Is worm casting better than compost?
There is not much difference between worm casting and composting. However, worm casting has more nutrients than compost coupled with a refined and enhanced profile that aids aeration and soil moisture.
Therefore, they are a great option for small-scale vegetable gardens because of their high-level nutrient contents. Also, worm compost is pretty expensive to buy in comparison to compost and several soil additives. In addition, it is not so easy making worm casting by oneself, unlike compost.
On the other hand, compost as well contains organic matter that has decomposed into rich humus. But its nutrients are not as rich as worm casting. Compost is affordable and easy to make by yourself therefore you can get compost for free.
Can you use too many worm castings?
You should not use too much worm casting, always use the right amount. This way, the nutrient levels provided by worm casting will not be too much. However, using a little extra worm casting will not harm or burn your plants, unlike chemical fertilizers. This is because worm casting is mainly organic.
How long do worm castings last?
Although most potting soil nutrient life is about 2 to 5 days. Worm casting can last 6 times longer than most potting soil.
Also, worm casting can be stored for up to 6 months or even longer and it depends on how you store them. Storing worm casting away from ultraviolet light and a constant temperature will make them last longer.
What is the NPK of worm castings?
A survey done on worm casting shows that they are abundant in over 60 micronutrients including calcium, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, potash, magnesium, sulfur, and iron. Also, the NPK ratio for worm casting is 5:5:3.
The worm-casting nutrient content is higher than compost. For this reason, the rate at which worm compost is applied is lower and a single application works wonders. The worm-casting nutrient contains microbes that aid in plant disease resistance and deter harmful insects.
Worm casting is water-soluble and makes vital nutrients and trace minerals readily accessible to plants. They are purely organic making them essentially safe than chemical fertilizers.
Another great thing apart from the rich nutrient they provide, worm casting also retains moisture which is vital for plants to successfully pass through drought periods. They will as well enhance your soil structure and aeration.
March 2, 2023
Scoria vs Pumice: Pros and Cons for Growing
Today we are going to discuss scoria vs pumice for soil amendment in succulents. They are both minerals that are widely used in gardening, but for different things. Some people argue if they are good for succulents and why. Let us discuss their pros and cons.
Growing succulents is very popular, and I have a soft spot in my heart for them. They are so easy to keep, as they usually prefer negligence rather than constant attention, and they look so nice when correctly displayed. This, though, can be intimidating for an avid gardener, as one may think that it is outrageous to leave the plants be and not care for them that much. But that is exactly what succulents need. The best way to make sure succulents can thrive in your garden is to choose the right soil for them.
What Type of Soil Do Succulents Need?
Growing succulents in areas where the soil is not their preferred type to grow in can be challenging if you do not know what they need to thrive. The main issue you may run into is overwatering.
What happens is that not any soil will work with these plants. They are a type of cactus, so they do not need much water at all to live. If you plant them in moist soil, they will die, although that may seem counterintuitive to some gardeners.
The first thing to know is that you need a well-draining potting mix. That means, it needs to be a porous type of soil and it needs to drain water really well. If it traps water, you will drown the plants.
You can buy a pre-packaged succulent soil mix or a porous soil mix, but it is cheaper to make your own. This way you can also control all the ingredients that go in it and assure yourself you will not overwater the plants.
What is Scoria?
Scoria is a small grain of red lava. It can be found coarsely or finely milled, like sand. It is formed in basaltic magma, which means that it comes from lava that is flowing. It is a type of rock that has many air bubbles trapped in it and that is why, when milled, it remains porous.
Its color makes it very beautiful and it is usually used in landscaping. Many people prefer the flashy red look of it to decorate their gardens.
Is scoria good for planting succulents?
As a soil alternative, 100% scoria is not the greatest idea for succulents. It has higher-than-expected water retention which is associated with the high surface area and little holes that the rocks have. This makes it heavy and can lead to succulents dying from overwatering.
If you are going to add scoria to your planting mix, we recommend using a larger ground and washing all the dust before mixing it into the soil. The dust can prevent airflow and trap too much-unwanted moisture next to the roots.
This could also be detrimental, though, because the larger it is, the more chance it has of damaging the roots of your succulents. It has sharp edges and a heavy root.
What is Pumice?
Pumice is the preferred type of lava rock that is used as a soil amendment for succulents. It is different from scoria in that this rock is formed from the actual eruption of a volcano. Its reaction to air and extreme heat then creates a froth that then becomes a felsic rock. That is pumice.
Felsic means that it is composed of light minerals, so it is lighter than scoria. It is white and that is why many landscapers prefer scoria to finish up their garden look. But this color difference means that it is composed of different minerals and has different, although similar, properties.
Is pumice good for succulents?
Pumice has 70 or more trace minerals that are readily accessible to plants because of its thin layers. It is volcanic glass and not rock. This is why it is lighter than scoria, which is a rock. Pumice will float when first dropped into water, for example.
After a while, it will sink, though. This is because all of its little nooks and crannies will hold water. This is also what happens when you water pumice-rich soil. Pumice will hold water and slowly release it as the plant needs it.
It will seem bone dry to the touch but it’s holding moisture, just not right next to the roots, which can lead to rotting.
What is Scoria and How Does it Differ From Pumice: Scoria vs Pumice
As mentioned, both scoria and pumice are types of volcanic rock. However, scoria is much darker in color and is usually red, black, or brown. The comparison between the two is that while pumice is light in color, scoria is dark in color. While pumice is low in density, scoria is high in density. While pumice has small vesicles, scoria has large vesicles. And while pumice has thin vesicle walls, scoria has thick vesicle walls. However, their similarities are that they’re both volcanic rocks and they both may contain crystals.
Scoria Texture – What is it Like?
You may be wondering what the texture of scoria is like. Both scoria and pumice rock have a vesicular texture. This simply means that it contains holes.
Pumice and Scoria Rock Type – Are Pumice & Scoria Igneous Rock?
There are many types of rock and you may be wondering what types of both pumice and scoria are. Both pumice and scoria are types of igneous rock; which simply means they’re made from molten lava. They’re both vesicular in texture and come from volcanoes. While scoria is usually red, pumice is most often white.
What Plants to Use Scoria For?
You can use scoria in your soil for many plants. However, I’ve found that it works best for garden beds and plants such as tomatoes, flowers, and herbs.
What Plants to Use Pumice For?
You can use pumice in your soil for plants such as succulents and cacti. If a plant needs good drainage, then pumice is sure to help. You can also use pumice for flower beds, vegetable gardens, and flower pots. However, for smaller plants, it’s best to use finely crushed pumice.
Benefits of Using Pumice
There are many benefits when it comes to using pumice in your gardening. Let’s take a closer look at why you should add this rock to your list of gardening essentials.
- Pumice is Heavy. While this may seem like a drawback, it’s absolutely not when you’re working with plants that are top-heavy and need that support and structure to thrive.
- Helps Waterlogging. As pumice is often recommended for plants that require good drainage, they’re great at ensuring your plants aren’t drowning and potentially rotting. Pumice’s main function is that it retains any water your plants do not need to thrive.
- Versatile. Pumice can be used in any type of soil, so is a staple for your gardening needs. As well as this can also be used as mulch, as it’s hardy and can last for long periods.
Benefits of Using Scoria
There are also many benefits of using scoria in your gardening. Let’s take a closer look.
- - Great Water Retention. Much like pumice, it can be helpful for plants that require good drainage. This is an ideal environment for many plants to thrive; particularly if you have a lot of rainfall or waterlogging issues.
  - Protection. As scoria is a hardy rock, it works great as mulch and provides a protective barrier to your plants, from issues such as erosion.
  - Less Care. To keep maintenance of some soil can be hard work, but this is not the case for scoria. It requires little effort at all as it’s so long-lasting.
Conclusion: Scoria vs Pumice
Both of these ingredients will lighten the soil, but pumice will hold more air and water than scoria does, while at the same time providing lightness to the soil and not damaging any roots or leaving the plants open to infections.
Another thing is that scoria is rich in fluoride. Succulents do not like this component in their soil, they are really sensitive to it. This is why it is not recommended to water succulents with tap water, especially if you live in a city.
Scoria is great to use as a topper. It looks amazing and prevents pests, insects, and rodents from coming near your plants -to an extent. Pumice is best to add to your soil because of its many benefits.
Scoria is still going to be a better option to add to your soil than aquarium gravel or pea gravel because it is going to be a lot more porous. These are more space fillers and do not provide aeration.
If scoria is more readily available to you, try it out! Bear in mind that, as it is heavier, if you use it in bigger pots they are going to be more difficult to move around. It should be fine to try in smaller pots. Do not try it with young plants, though, as they need to keep moistened for the first year.
What is your favorite type of additive to grow your succulents or other plants? Leave a comment below with your tips and tricks, we would love to know and share them with the community!
FAQs
Is Perlite or Pumice Better For Succulents?
Both perlite and pumice are great for succulents. However, pumice may a better option only if they are meant for taller plants. Pumice weight will provide an anchor that will prevent your pot or container from being overturned or capsized. Pumice is also durable and heavier material than perlite.
However, pumice may be difficult to purchase and they are higher in price than perlite.
Succulents require adequate drainage; this is where perlite and pumice come in. Both perlite and pumice are soil amendments for succulents mixed with potting soil to enhance soil aeration and excellent water drainage.
Where Can I Buy Pumice Plants?
Here are the following places you can buy pumice for your plants from:
-You can find a vast variety of pumice for your gardening needs from the Amazon online shopping store.
-You can also buy pumice from stores like Walmart, Lowes, Home Depot, etc.
-Hess pumice offers various grades of pumice products that you can also buy in various garden centers closer to you.
How Do You Apply Pumice to Plants?
You can notice enough soil improvements by combining as little as 10% pumice with your garden soil mix. To enhance the porosity of plants such as succulents, apply 25% pumice mixed with 25% soil. You should also mix 25% compost and 25% large-grain soil. To improve soil drainage for plants that are susceptible to root rot such as euphorbia, mix 50% pumice with potting soil. Ideally, the general rule is to combine an equal amount of pumice with potting soil for potted succulents. For cacti plants, you can mix 60% pumice with 40% potting soil. You can also use pumice as a top dresser to mop up stagnant rainwater around plants.
Is Lava Rock the Same as Pumice?
Lava and pumice are of both volcanic origins. They are however slightly different. They differ by color, density, element composition, vesicle size, and water retention capacity.
Pumice is lighter because of the air mixed in it, while lava rock is denser. Lava rock also has bigger vesicles and thicker vesicle walls than pumice.
Lava is a type of scoria rock and it is a molten rock released from a volcano during an eruption. The subsequent rock solidifies and cools to result in lava rock, while pumice is a mixture of volcanic ash and rock.
Lava rock, just like pumice, is great for enhancing drainage and they are great for succulents. However, pumice comes in a better size and structure for your plant use.
What Causes the Frothy Appearance of Pumice and Scoria?
The frothy appearance of pumice and scoria is caused by the aggressive eruption from volcanic which shoots the lava out filling it with gas.
Both pumice and scoria are extrusive rocks. They are usually molded outwards of the volcano, especially at the upper part of the lava flow. The upper part of the scoria turns extremely frothy and after they must have cooled down. The air in the lava then expands and breaks free creating an air hole in the rock.
March 2, 2023
How to Make Potash (Best Step-by-Step Guide)
Potash is derived from the word potassium and it is also referred to as fertilizer potassium. Potash is a natural element or a natural nutrient for both plants as well as human beings. How to make potash is what we would like to talk about.
This natural element is essential for plants as well as humans to get adequate nutrition to grow properly. Historically, potash has been used to make soap and glass. It has also been used as a drying agent in food and as an animal feed ingredient.
Even though potash is fairly easy to make, it can still require a little effort to know how to go about it. Now, in this article, we will give you a step-by-step guide on how to make potash, so keep on reading for some insight on this.
But before we look into how to make potash, let’s quickly look into some information on potash.
About Potash
Potash is also known as the potassium salt. It comes from an early production technique whereby potassium was leached from wood ashes. Then the resulting substance was then concentrated by evaporating the leachate in big iron pots (“pot-ash”).
So, in those days, potassium is usually extracted from the ashes of burnt wood. However, this practice is no longer used due to several environmental issues.
The very first patent in the US is potash. It was first patented in 1790 and it still remains an essential product today.
Potash is primarily used as an agricultural fertilizer and this is mainly because it is a great source of soluble potassium. This potassium is one of the main plant macronutrients alongside nitrogen and phosphorus (i.e. NPK).
This potash can be used in making soap and textiles softer. Potash can be used as a fertilizer to improve your garden soil nutrient. It can also be used in the prevention of plant diseases or you can use them as an insecticide by applying them to bugs directly.
Sources Where Potash Are Derived From
Since the old way of deriving potash is not safe and unreliable, where then does today’s potash come from? Here are two ways potash is sourced:
1. From Ancient Sea
A time came when an ancient sea dried up. Then the marine salt concentration on the resulting dry land left an abundant residue of minerals and this mineral included potash. This residue is found in the dead sea of Israel and it has produced valuable sources of potash with ICL. They are one of the world’s top producers of potash that sells over 4.5 million tons yearly.
1. Mining
Another source of potash fertilizer is from mining a variety of geological potassium salt deposits around the world. Now, these are then processed to take out impurities and then converted into a variety of fertilizers.
There is also another mining operation that occurs in Catalonia, Spain through its subsidiary, ICL Iberia Suria and Sallent (IBP).
How to Make Potash: Guide to Follow
Follow this procedure to learn how to make potash:
Step 1: Addition of water and nitrate
Use a measuring cup of 100 milliliters to measure water, then use another measuring cup to measure 40mg of nitrate. Then pour it into the cup.
Step 2: Stir completely
Pour the mixed solution above into a beaker and begin to stir slowly until it mixes completely.
Step 3: Get a hot pan to pour into
Use filter paper to sieve the solution and ensure there are no insoluble particles left. Then get a saucepan and pour the solution into it (water and nitrate). Then begin to heat it.
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Step 4: Potassium chloride addition
Get 37 gms of potassium chloride and slowly pour it into the saucepan and begin stirring the solution until all is mixed. Make sure you maintain the heat at a medium temperature range and avoid boiling the solution. Then keep on stirring.
Step 5: Filter then freeze
After properly mixing the solution, get another filter paper and filter the solution into a freezer-safe container. Again, make sure no solid particles are left out.
Step 6: Crystallization
Once you’ve placed the solution into the freezer, crystallization will begin to form. Then you can take out the container from the freezer once you’ve noticed the total solution has turned completely crystal.
Step 7: Excess liquid should be drained out
You should drain out the extra liquid. So, in case you see some liquid residue at the bottom of the container, you should just drain out the extra liquid. This is to further ensure that no liquid is left and all you’ve got is crystal.
Step 8: Dry the crystal
Next, allow the crystal to dry for a while. Then once they are finally dried, the dried crystal can be applied to your plant as a potash fertilizer.
So, there you go. You can see how easy it can be to make potash fertilizer with the right knowledge.

Sources of Potash From Nature
There are some excellent sources of potash from nature, and they include:
- Potassium sulfate (K2SO4)- Sulfate of potash
- Potassium Chloride(KCl)- Muriate of Potash
- Potassium thiosulfate (K2S2O3)
- Potassium-magnesium sulphate(K2SO4-2MgSO4)
- Potassium nitrate (KNO3)
The potash or potassium content present in each of the fertilizers mentioned above is pretty nutritious for plants no matter the source. However, the only difference between each of the fertilizers listed above is the element that follows the potassium compound.
You should also note that each of the added elements has its own function and acts differently when supplied to crops as fertilizers.
How to Make Potash From Wood Ashes
You can make your own potash in a range of ways. While you can buy it, it’s super easy to make yourself and you need very few products to make it happen. While wood ash is the most common type of ash to use, you can also use other plant ashes, such as ashes from vines, bean stalks, ferns, and thistles. For wood ash, the best wood ash to use is either from coniferous or deciduous trees.
This guide will make around 60g of potash. For this, you’ll need the following products:
- 400g of wood ash (either from coniferous or deciduous trees)
- 4L of drinking water
Now all you need to do is:
1. Add both the wood ash and drinking water to a pot and leave for around 10-12 hours. After this time, stir.
2. Next, you’ll need to use filter paper to filter the mixture. Alternatively, you can bring it to a boil in the pot it’s in.
3. Once you have a clear mixture, boil on medium heat and heat until the water has completely evaporated. You should stir often throughout. At this point, a powder should be left behind. This is your potash!
4. Store your potash in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for the best results.
What is the Ash Composition of Potassium Hydroxide?
This is simply the fancy name for potash. Wood ashes contain both potassium hydroxide and potassium carbonate. Because of the high amount of potassium and the use of ashes, this is how it gets the name potash.
Advantages of Potash
When it comes to potash, there are many advantages and reasons why you’ll want to add it to your garden. Let’s take a closer look.
- Potash is a natural resource, as opposed to chemical fertilizers, which is one of the main appeals of the product
- You can easily make this natural fertilizer yourself at home
- If you do buy it, it’s much more affordable than other fertilizers
- It’s easy to use on your plants
- It’s considered a nontoxic product
- It’s renewable, which means that it’s much better for the environment than say chemical fertilizers
Disadvantages of Potash
While there are many advantages of potash, like most things in life, it does come with some disadvantages and negative effects too. It can cause problems for both animals and people. Let’s take a closer look.
As the name suggests, it has a high amount of potassium. Unfortunately, if not used correctly, potassium can cause hyperkalemia. This simply means an abundance of potassium in your body. This can cause a range of problems to your body, and in the most extreme cases, can even cause death.
In terms of the problems it can cause with your plants, potash can either make your soil too alkaline or too acidic – yes, it can cause either! If you have too much acid in your soil, it may mean your plants don’t grow as well as they should. And if you have too much alkaline in your soil, they may simply cease to grow, period!
While there are a few disadvantages of potash, I believe the advantages far outweigh the negatives. Just be sure to use your potash correctly.
Final Thoughts: How to Make Potash
Potash is a type of fertilizer that is very useful when added to our garden crops and it can also be referred to as potassium.
Apart from adding them to our plants as fertilizers, there are also other uses for this substance. For instance, it can be used as a drying agent for food, it can be used for making soaps or glass, and you can also use it as animal feed.
In this article, we have given you a step-by-step guide on how you can make potash. So, we do hope we have been able to enlighten you on the question: of how to make potash.
Do you have any tips and tricks when it comes to making potash? If so, please feel free to let us know in the comments below. And remember, sharing is caring!
FAQs
How to make potash fertilizer?
As of today, potash fertilizer comes from either underground or solution mining. Using mining method, a variety of geological potassium salt deposits around the world is mined to derive potash fertilizer. Then from the bottom of the sea when dried up, the residue minerals left from the dried sea contains also potash.
How to make liquid potash fertilizer?
Banana peels with 3 eggshells should be dried. Then combine them with Epsom salt and grind the mixture into powder form. Add water into the powder. Shake and water your plants with this liquid potash.
How to make potash from wood ashes?
Burn some woods in an enclosed area. An extra tip is not making use of any tree branch as this will leave to become black ashes. Then make sure the woods burn to about 2 hours and you can have your potash.
How to make organic potash fertilizer?
You can make organic potash fertilizer from hardwood ashes, kelp meal, and green-sand. Making a homemade organic potash fertilizer reduces wastage and the best part is that it does not require measuring or mixing ingredients.
March 2, 2023
DIY Hydroponics Nutrients [The Best Recipe]
Let’s guide you on how to make the best DIY hydroponics nutrients recipe. The nutrient solution is an essential component in hydroponic farming. Providing the appropriate nutrient mixture in the right proportion will enhance the growth and yield of your crops.
Usually, most hydroponic growers purchase nutrient solutions from commercial sellers. It will interest you to know that making your homemade hydroponics nutrients recipe is affordable and possible to make with the right knowledge.
Why Make Your Own DIY Hydroponics Nutrients Recipe?
Even though most growers prefer to buy premixed nutrients because they don’t want the stress of calculating the ratios of nutrients required, there are benefits to making your nutrient solution.
The most rewarding advantage you get from making your hydroponics nutrients recipe is that you get to cut down on your expenses. Making your own nutrients can also be a fun thing to do. You would be amazed to know you’ve been buying these commercially made nutrients at high prices when most of the ingredients used are very affordable and easily obtainable.
Now if it interests you to grow plants for a long duration or you’re growing on a large scale, commercial nutrient purchase may not be beneficial to you. Preparing your own formula may be the best way to go. So, if you’re wondering how best to make a DIY hydroponics nutrients recipe, we will guide you into this.
DIY Hydroponic Nutrient Solution Recipe Guidelines
The combination of nutrients and water makes up a hydroponic nutrient solution. Before we look into the nutrient recipe, let us look at the important nutrient elements hydroponic plants require to grow successfully.
Nutrient elements required for making hydroponic nutrients solution
For hydroponic plants to grow adequately, they require both macronutrients and micronutrients present in their nutrient solutions.
- Macronutrients
Macronutrients are higher concentrated elements required by plants to grow appropriately. They include magnesium, carbon, calcium, nitrogen, hydrogen, sulfur, oxygen, phosphorous, and potassium.
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Nitrogen and sulfur nutrient elements will assist in the production of protein and amino acids for your plant. Potassium and magnesium will produce sugar and starch. While phosphorus is required for plant growth and photosynthesis, and calcium is also required for growth. The production of chlorophyll requires magnesium and nitrogen.
All these elements must be contained in your hydroponic nutrients solution or else it will be rendered futile.
- Micronutrients
Plants also need micronutrients or trace elements in small amounts to develop. Ensure they are present in your homemade hydroponics nutrients recipe so your plants can thrive well. Micronutrients required by hydroponic plants are zinc, boron, cobalt, copper, manganese, iron, chlorine, and molybdenum.
Recipe On How to Make Hydroponic Solution at Home
All types of plants flourish with the presence of both macronutrients and micronutrients. However, the concentrations of these nutrients will vary depending on the type of plants and growth stages. They can be in vegetative, flowering, or fruiting stages.
Guidelines for making macronutrients recipe
Obtain the base of your fertilizer. The base includes nutrient elements such as sulfur, calcium, phosphorous, nitrogen, and so on. They usually come in form of salts and they are mixed with water to form a solution.
These are the amounts of salts you should use for your homemade hydroponics nutrient recipe:
- 4.5 tablespoons of calcium nitrate
- 4 tablespoons of potassium nitrate
- 4 tablespoons of magnesium sulfate, calcium carbonate, and magnesium carbonate
- 10 gallons of water
Instructions:
1. Ensure you use clean or filtered water.
2. To your 10 gallons of water, add two tablespoons of salt to each gallon of water.
3. Ensure you mix or add one tablespoon of salt at a time.
4. As you mix the solution, the salts will break down their nutrient elements to make them available to your plants.
Guidelines for adding/preparing micronutrients recipe
Instructions:
1. Using a different container, measure 1 quart of water and add 0.25 tablespoons of boric acid as well as 0.1 tablespoons of manganese chloride. Ensure you stir the mixture adequately.
2. After mixing, pour half a cup of this mixture and add it into the macronutrient solution.
3. Now get a different container and add 1 quart of water and mix 0.5 tablespoons of chelated iron.
4. Then add 3/5 cups of this mixture into the already made macronutrient solutions.
Tips for DIY Organic Hydroponic Nutrients Solution
One of the biggest reasons why people are intimidated by hydroponics is because of the daunting task of having to deal with nutrients. Getting the balance of nutrient balance may seem like a monumental task that can only be done by experts or robots. Store-bought hydroponic nutrients can also be quite pricey. This leaves people wondering if they can be able to sustain nutrient provision to their systems.
There is however a way to avoid all these issues. Here, we are going to show you how you can make your own DIY hydroponic nutrients.
Hydroponics can be organic as well. If you want to have an organic hydroponics system, you can achieve it as long as you refrain from using any chemicals, pesticides, and artificial fertilizers. You can obtain all-natural products from things like manure and plant matter.
The advantage of having an organic system is that you produce better-looking crops, the crops taste and smell better, as well as have better nutritional value.
Some of the most common organic fertilizers that are used for hydroponic nutrients include:
1. Manure based
2. Fish meal
3. Gypsum based
4. Bone meal
5. Guano
6. Blood meal
7. Compost based
8. Plant-based
These materials can be mixed and matched depending on the system that you are using and the requirements of the crops that you are growing.
A basic NPK proportion of 15-15-15 is mostly used by many hydroponic gardeners. Many other macronutrients and micronutrients such as calcium, sulfur, copper, boron, zinc, iron, and manganese are also necessary.
While there are all these options available to make hydroponic nutrients, in some cases it might be best to avoid substances like manure because of the risk of bacterial contamination. Another issue with these kinds of substances is that they can cause other problems such as clogging of pipes.
The best organic fertilizer for your hydroponics system ultimately depends on the system and crops you are growing. With that said, there are many possibilities once you get the hang of it.
Once you have decided on the materials you are going to use for your DIY hydroponic nutrient solution, these are the materials you will need to mix everything all together before incorporating it into your hydroponics system:
- Bucket, tub, or another container
- Accurate scale
- Jug or large measuring cup
- pH test and adjustment kit
- Teaspoon
- Stirring rod or spoon
- An electrical conductivity (EC) meter to measure the total dissolved solutes in the solution
- Gloves
When making your nutrient solution, it is important to monitor the EC and pH as they are essential to water quality parameters. The pH affects the ability of the plants to absorb essential elements from the nutrient solution. Most plants prefer acidic conditions in the pH range between 5.8 and 6.5, you should ensure that you’re solution stays within this range. Make pH adjustments to your system as necessary during the growth of your plants. You can make use of pH up and down to adjust the pH accordingly.
Simple Hydroponics Nutrients
It is easy to make your own, natural fertilizer for hydroponics as we have demonstrated above. It is also possible to make your formula with readily available components. You can do this by using normal hydroponics fertilizer or making your own.
A simple way to make hydroponic nutrients is to purchase some water-soluble fertilizer. Good ones are 20-20-20 or 24-8-16 (NPK), which are available from nurseries, garden supply stores, and even online stores such as Amazon. When purchasing these commercial nutrients, make sure you get the ones that have micronutrients included.
Add two teaspoons of this fertilizer per gallon of water and mix very well. Add one teaspoon of magnesium sulfate (Epsom salts) per gallon. After mixing these, thoroughly stir the mixture and ensure that everything is well incorporated. And then it is ready for use.
Cheap Hydroponics Nutrients
If you have ever owned a hydroponics system or looking into having and running one, you will know how expensive pre-made hydroponic nutrient mixes are very expensive. If you are running a small system that has not yet reached optimum production, you may find yourself making a loss from having to purchase nutrients.
Here are some cheap hydroponics nutrients for you to try out:
Formula #1
This formula will work for a 5-gallon container of nutrient solution. This solution works best for non-recirculating and small systems, such as DWC and raft systems:
- Masterblend Tomato 4-18-38: 10 g
- Calcium Nitrate 15.5-0-0: 10 g
- Epsom Salt: 5 g
While using this formula, if you notice any deficiencies in your plants, you should use a supplementary formula for extra nutrition.
Formula #2
This nutrient mix needs a few more components but it is a very easy mix. Once mixed, add 10 g of the mixture for each gallon of water in your system:
- Potassium nitrate: 255g
- Calcium Phosphate: 198g
- Magnesium Sulfate: 170g
- Powdered Ammonium Sulfate: 43g
- Monocalcium Phosphate: 113g
- Iron Sulfate: 1/2 teaspoon
This mixture is highly concentrated, so make sure to wear protective clothing to avoid skin and eye irritations.
Formula #3
This 2 ingredient solution is quite cheap and very easy to make:
- Seaweed (Kelp): 6oz
- Epsom Salts: 5 teaspoons – 1 teaspoon per gallon of water
Wrap your seaweed in cheesecloth and tie it with twine. Add 5 gallons of water into a bucket and add the seaweed bag. Leave this mix outside in the sun for 5 days. Afterward, add 5 teaspoons of Epsom salts. You can either add this entire mixture into your hydroponics tank or in small increments.
DIY Hydroponic Nutrients From Compost
These are the steps to follow if you want to make your own nutrients from compost:
1. Place a gallon of compost into a 5-gallon bucket
2. Fill the bucket with water and stir well
3. Continuously aerate the mixture with an aquarium air pump
4. Let the mixture sit out of direct sunlight for up to 3 days. Make sure to stir the mixture every day
5. Pour the liquid through a strainer to filter out the solids. The resulting liquid can then be used as fertilizer
Conclusion
We hope this article has provided you with all you needed to know about DIY hydroponics nutrients. There are many different components you can use to make your hydroponics nutrients, depending on your system and the plant species in the system. We hope the information in this article will help you to become more confident with your next DIY hydroponics nutrient solution.
FAQs
What’s a decent
In the process of making the solution, there are many different methods and processes that can be used to make the solution. The solution can either be made with or without the use of nutrients. If you want to make a nutrient-free solution, it is important to know the amount of water that your plants need to survive.
To make an organic hydroponic solution, you will need some nutrients. You can use a commercial product like Gro-Lite or you can make your own solution. The problem with making the solution is that it requires a lot of time and work. The other problem is that you will end up using a lot of chemicals that will pollute the environment. If you have been growing plants organically for a long time, then you should be familiar with this method. There are many products available on the market that are designed to be used as organic fertilizers. When making the solution, you need to add the fertilizer into the distilled water.
You can use a regular 5 gallon bucket for your hydroponic system. Next, you will need something to use as a nutrient solution. This could be a combination of water, water soluble fertilizer, and some Epsom salt. I usually use 1/4 cup of Epsom salt, 1/2 cup of water soluble fertilizer, and 1 quart of water.
What are the common nutrients for hydroponics?
There are a lot of different types of nutrients available, but I’ve found that the most commonly used ones are:
Nitrogen: N-P-K Phosphorus: P-S-B Potassium: K-Mg-Fe Sulfur: N-P-S Magnesium: Mg-Ca-K Manganese: Mn-Cu-Mn Calcium: Ca-Mg-K Copper: Cu-Mn Zinc: Zn-Fe Boron: B-Mn-Co-Ni Chromium: Cr-Cu-Mn Iron: Fe-Mn-Co-Cu-Zn
There are certain nutrients that will work for all plants, such as nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium and magnesium. Others are best suited for specific plant families. For example, copper is known to be good for ferns, while manganese is best for flowering plants. Some of these are also more common than others, so it’s important to know what types of nutrients are most commonly used for each plant family. For instance, in a hydroponic system you wouldn’t use manganese for flowering plants because it can have an effect on the colour of the flowers.
There are certain nutrients that will not work for all plants, and will actually have the opposite effect to what you want. For example, sulphur is known to be harmful to ferns and algae, while some flowering plants need potassium in order to flower. Some other nutrients are very specific and can only be used for a certain type of plant, such as calcium, which is only useful for ferns and cacti. Some of these are also more common than others, so it’s important to know what types of nutrients are most commonly used for each plant family.
What type of fertilizer should you use for a hydroponic solution?
Make sure that the fertilizer you use has all of the elements that you want in your solution. When you add too much nitrogen into the solution, you will have more of a root zone which will slow down the growth of the plant. If you want to make your own hydroponic solution, you should know what nutrients to add. When you start growing plants, you will need to fertilize them once every 2 to 3 weeks.
February 25, 2023
Black Light For Plants – Our Best 4 Picks
Wondering if black light for plants works? Plants require light to grow, be it artificial light or natural sunlight. Now, this light comes in various colors of the spectrum. Different light colors are required by your plants at their various stages of growth.
Ultraviolet (UV) light is also emitted in the light spectrum and some forms of it are absorbed by ozone, water vapor, oxygen, and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. It is the black light that emits UV radiation and we will be talking about its effect on plants’ growth.
Ultraviolet Black Light for Plants Growth
As we said, a black light emits UV light. The types of UV light produced by black lights are UVA and UVB. Various light wavelengths are absorbed by chlorophyll and phytopigments known as photosynthetic pigments. The lights are assimilated and help to carry out the process of photosynthesis.
Among all the colors of light, chlorophyll vigorously assimilates the blue region more. However, chlorophyll also has strong assimilation for some ultraviolet spectrum portions. The longest wavelength which is found in UVA is firmly assimilated by plants.
Effect of Black Light (UV Light) on Plant Growth
The effect of UV light varies with different plants. You need to be cautious if you wish to use black lights to help support your plants’ growth. This is because too much UV radiation can cause great harm to phytopigments.
Growing plants under black lights alone in the absence of white light may be damaging. You will be depriving them of benefiting from other colors of light. Your plants may grow with a blacklight but they will start to grow leggy because they are missing other colors.
Also, your plants’ chances of blooming with black lights are very slim. However, in a safe dose, your plants may benefit from ultraviolet black light.
- Effect of UV light on microorganisms
Microorganisms in plants offer both good and bad effects. There are some microorganisms such as bacteria that affect plants negatively by causing rust and wilting, which give rise to diseases. Ultraviolet light can help kill these harmful bacteria, as well as other pathogens.
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However, we also have some beneficial bacteria such as the nitrogen-fixing bacteria present in plants. They help fix the nitrogen used by plants. Ultraviolet light always ends up destroying beneficial microbes which play a vital part in the development of your plants. Thus UV is not ideal for the use of killing microbes.
- Effect of UV light on plant DNA
Generally, it is well known that UV rays are pretty damaging to any life form. Now, UV rays are damaging to proteins, DNA, and lipids. So, if the DNA of a cell gets impaired, the genetic substance depreciates and this may bring about mutations or programmed cell death.
Although the damage done to the DNA may usually not be adverse, it may end up causing mutation in plants. Now, a mutation in plants may give rise to significant diversity which can result in better adaptable plants or even organisms.
But generally, plants don’t really need UV light because it actually brings more harm than good. But in a situation where plants end up getting UV light, it forces a reaction that protects plants and ends up boosting certain properties in them.
- UV resistant crops
The earth continues to experience some climatic crises. This has been causing the ozone layer that protects the earth from the sun’s UV rays to deplete. Our worry is how damaging can this be to both humans and plants.
The good news is that researchers have been working on the effect of UV on crops and how they can be protected. Researchers have conducted laboratory experiments showing that plants are adapting. It shows that outdoor plants exposed to more UV rays have begun generating molecules to obstruct UV lights.
Therefore, plants can now thrive in severe climatic conditions. At the same time, plants can use UV light to their advantage to fight diseases bothering the plant.
However, UV light is generally detrimental to plants and the negative effect of UV black lights outweighs their advantages.
Are Black Lights and Grow Lights The Same?
Grow lights typically contain a good mix of light in different wavelengths that plants need for growth. This is including the black light that emits UV. Some grow lights naturally emit UV through chemical exchange. Grow lights such as HIDs and T5 grow lights. LED grow lights,s on the other hand can be built with specialized UV-B bulbs or diodes to give them the UV (to give off UV-B) they do not naturally come with.
Ultraviolet light is inane wavelengths of between 320 and 400 nanometers. Unlike lights in other wavelengths that are visible to the human eye, many birds and a small number of humans can perceive light in this wavelength.
Do Plants Need UV Light?
There are different perceptions and opinions about the usefulness of UV light for plants.
Plants that are grown with the use of black lights alone usually will suffer from numerous consequences because of being deprived of natural light.
Excessive UV radiation can have negative effects on plant phytopigments. Some studies have found that removing UV light from white light sources would improve plant growth.
Blacklightt emits UV radiation in the UVA and UVB regions. Chlorophyll from plants strongly absorbs long wavelengths in the UVA region. From this perspective, it is safe to assume that black light would not be ideal for any plant. Plants grown under black light tend to grow poorly or fail to grow at all.
There are however certain benefits that have been observed with the use of UV light for plants. Moderate UVC can kill certain plant pathogens. An excess,s however, can kill beneficial microbes that play a positive role in the growth of plants and other important organisms. Some plants have been specifically found to benefit from the use of UV light. One of these plants is Marijuana. In marijuana, UV light increases the production of CBD and THC, as a coping mechanism to protect the plant from harmful UV radiation. CBD and THC are the active ingredients of the plant. Because of this, LED grow lights used by marijuana growers have UV added to them.
Are Black Lights Bad for You?
As we have discusses, there are different types of black lights or UV lights. There is UVA, UV, B, and UVC. Of these three types, the short wavelength UVC is the most damaging to humans. Fortunately, it is filtered by the atmosphere before it reaches the earth’s surface. Medium wavelength UVB is biologically active, but cannot penetrate past the top layers of the skin.
Prolonged exposure to UV light emitted by black light can be harmful. It can potentially be damaging to your eyes and can affect your vision over time, as well as your skin.
For example, long periods spent in direct exposure to UVA light, such as in tanning beds have been found to cause skin damage.
If you have to work with UV lights in enclosed growing spaces, be sure to wear protective clothing or materials to reduce the risk of damage to your skin and eyes.
How Long to Leave UV Light on Plants
All plants differ in the amount of UV that they require, and can cope with. These differences are present even in plants of the same strain.
Because of these differences, the best way to start is to expose your plants to just 2 hours per day of UV light. It might be best to even split these into 2,1-hour stints. You can increase this time by 15 minutes every two days. If you notice that the top smaller leaves are burning a little, reduce the exposure time by about 30 minutes per stint.
Diligently following this procedure will allow you to get the best out of giving your plants UV light, without causing any damage to them.
The Best UV Light for Indoor Plants
If you grow plants indoors, you should be supplementing your plants with some UV light. UV light can help with plant growth in several ways. It can also help with the potency and overall quality of plant flowers.
However, there are only certain types of UV light that are beneficial to plants. Remember, UV is broken down into 3 categories, i.e. UVA, UVB, and UVC. Only UVA and UVB are essential for certain parts of life on earth, but UVC is not.
A bit more about UVA and UVB;
- Ultraviolet A (UVA)
UVA light is in wavelengths between 320 nm and 400 nm. It contains approximately 3% of the photons that are present in natural sunlight that comes through the earth’s atmosphere. This type of UV has no harmful effects on DNA.
- Ultraviolet B (UVB)
This type of UV is in wavelengths between 29 nm and 320 nm. It contains about 1/5 of 1% of natural sunlight. Unlike UVA, UVB can cause damage and can cause cancer in humans and animals.
When it comes to providing your plants with UV light, the best way to do it is to get a high-quality UV-to-grow light. Many full-spectrum LED lights emit just the right amount of UV. They also mimic natural sunlight, so they will be great and make your plants feel as if they are growing outside.
There are other lights that such as ceramic CMH grow lights which emit UV light, this is along with some double-ended bulbs.
With all these options, it can be confusing to know which light to choose. Here are four lights that we recommend for you;
Another factor to consider when using a UV light for your plants is to use it in small doses over the entire life of the plant, instead of using it in high doses. This way, it will be safer and more effective.
Final Note – Black Light For Plants
As you have read from this article, there are specific uses, and ways to use UV light for plants so that it does not lead to damage. It can be beneficial in some cases and detrimental in others. Therefore, before you use any black light on your plants, determine whether or not your plants need it, and how best to expose your plants. If you use black light appropriately, such as in conjunction with other light colors, it has the potential to greatly benefit your plants.
FAQs
Does ultraviolet light help with Plant Growth?
The answer depends on what you are growing. The most common UV wavelengths used for indoor horticulture are 365nm, 390nm and 385nm. If you are growing plants that require a lot of light, such as tomatoes, peppers or cucumbers, then the plant will be able to grow normally with a certain amount of UV light.
However, if you are growing plants like broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts, spinach, cabbage, carrots, parsley, basil, lettuce and other leafy greens, then you will need more than the standard UV dose that comes from the sun. If you are growing these plants, you can use an UV lamp, which is available at nurseries and hardware stores. The UV light for horticulture comes in three different wavelengths: 365nm, 390nm and 385nm. These three wavelengths are used for different types of plants. Some plants require UV light at all times while others require it only in the daytime. The most common wavelength used for indoor horticulture is 365nm. This is because the 365nm wavelength has been proven to be the most effective in providing the optimal amount of light for plants.
What’s the relation between UV and plant growth?
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is part of the electromagnetic spectrum, which includes visible light, radio waves and X-rays. It consists of wavelengths shorter than that of visible light, but longer than those of X-rays. Ultraviolet radiation comes from the Sun, and it can also be generated artificially by high-intensity light bulbs. Ultraviolet radiation is important for plant growth and development because it helps in regulating the balance between the processes of photosynthesis and photorespiration.
How sensitive are plants to black lights?
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a form of solar radiation that can cause sunburn, skin cancer and other serious health problems. UV-B radiation causes skin cancer and cataracts; UV-A radiation is responsible for tanning of the skin. Although most plants are sensitive to UV-B radiation, some species have evolved ways to protect themselves against it. The same protective mechanisms apply to UV-A radiation, but they are not as widespread in nature.
Sunlight is composed of visible light, ultraviolet (UV) light and infrared light. The spectrum of UV light is divided into three bands: UVA, UVB and UVC. The UVA band, with wavelengths between 320 and 400 nm, penetrates the atmosphere and reaches the earth’s surface.
Does it affect the DNA od plants?
Not always, but it can cause mutations and damages. You should research which plants are resistant to UV rays and which ones are not.
February 21, 2023
Is Miracle Grow Toxic: Possible Negative Effects
Using the right kinds of feed and fertilizer for your plants is important, but is miracle growth toxic? Can it be used safely within your garden? Let’s take a closer look.
Grasses, plants, trees, flowers, birds, and butterflies. Who doesn’t love gardens? The scent of the lovely flowers, the birds chirping and the butterflies flying around, are all good to look at. But, a fruitful plant cannot be as productive as it could be, if not cared for correctly. Every gardener has their own strategy for growing their plants. One is by using the right kind of plant food.
What is a Plant Food?
Plant food is any substance like animal dung or a combination of nitrates used to make the soil more productive.
What is a Fertilizer?
A fertilizer is a chemical or natural substance added to soil to make it more fertile.
Is Plant Food a Fertilizer?
Plant food and fertilizer are often used interchangeably. Fertilizer indeed helps plants get the needed nutrients to grow and blossom properly. In terms of how they are used, plant food and fertilizer are not the same.
What is Miracle-Gro?
This is a type of plant food by Scott’s Miracle-Gro Company that every gardener knows. It provides readily available materials needed in the production of new cell structures within plants. It quickly feeds through the leaves and roots.
What is it used for?
It is used for flowers, vegetables, trees, and shrubs.
How do you use it?
Miracle-Gro can be used in two different ways:
- Through a feeder- 1 feeder refill packet can cover up to 500 sq. ft.
- Through a watering can- 1 tablespoon mixed with a gallon of water
There is also a suggested quantity that should be used:
- For roses with small bushes, 1/2 gallon should be used while a gallon should be used for big bushes. Feeding should be done every 7-14 days.
- For all flowers and vegetables, 1 gallon should be utilized for every 10 square feet, every 7-14 days.
- For indoor plants, however, only half a teaspoon should be mixed with a gallon of water. Also, leaf feeding for houseplants is not recommended. This mixture should be applied every 2 weeks.
Is Miracle Grow Toxic to Humans?
There are still no studies conducted to rule out its toxicity to humans. However, some of the ingredients of Miracle-Gro have serious effects on the surroundings and humans, too. As with any product, caution is always a great mindset to adopt.
What are the effects of some of the ingredients of Miracle-Gro on the environment?
The accumulation of nitrates in the soil causes water pollution if exposed to a flowing water source. Excessive use of artificial fertilizers can damage the natural composition of soil eventually.
Plants that grow in such soil will not have enough of their ingredients like iron, carotene, zinc, copper, protein, and vitamin C. It can also burn the roots of the plants when excessively given.
What are the effects of some of the ingredients on the garden itself?
It may harm the plant that it is supposed to strengthen if used improperly. One of the ingredients of the fertilizer is nitrogen which, if given in large quantities, can prevent shrubs and trees from blooming the way they used to.
It also contains a high volume of salt which, as time passes by, ransacks the soil of its natural nutrients and prevents plants from absorbing them. Gardeners tend to overfeed their plants, thinking that this will aid in the fast growth of their plants.
Those who apply it too much compromise not only the depletion of their current harvests but also indefinitely damage their spaces.
What are the effects of some of the ingredients on humans?
Excess nitrate levels in the soil create plants that, when eaten, turn to toxic nitrites in the intestines. Miracle-Gro should not be eaten, but if ingested accidentally can irritate the mouth, throat, esophagus, and stomach as it contains urea, an irritating ingredient present in plant food.
When irritation occurs, the person will experience nausea and vomiting. In addition, some of its ingredients can harm the soil itself, thus, can contaminate groundwater. Groundwater, as the primary source of potable water in the rural areas of the United States of America, can be greatly affected.
Various adverse health effects on humans can include:
- methemoglobinemia- also known as the blue baby syndrome
- various cancers
- Poor reproductive outcomes- like neural tube defects
- diabetes
- thyroid conditions
Miracle-Gro Came in Contact With My Eyes, What Should I Do?
Immediately flush your eyes with plenty of water and continue flushing for 15 minutes. If irritation further develops, seek medical treatment.
What is Miracle Grow Made of?
If you’re wondering what ingredients are in Miracle-Gro, then look no further. Typically it contains the following derivatives:
- ammonium sulfate
- potassium phosphate
- potassium chloride
- urea
- urea phosphate
- boric acid
- copper sulfate
- iron EDTA
- manganese EDTA
- sodium molybdate
- zinc sulfate
Does Miracle-Gro Have Nitrogen?
Yes, it does. Its high levels of nitrogen are one of the reasons it should not be used in excess for your plants. If used too much, it can cause harm to both your soil and your plants. Miracle-Gro not only contains high levels of nitrogen but also phosphorus and potassium too. This particular type of fertilizer is 15:30:15. This means that it contains 15% nitrogen, 30% phosphorus, and 15% potassium.
Why is Miracle-Gro Blue?
There are two main reasons why Miracle-Gro is blue. The first is because of the use of copper sulfate, which is blue. However, another reason is that synthetic fertilizers are sometimes dyed. This is because it makes it abundantly clear that it should not be consumed and is only to be used for fertilizing. When a fertilizer is darker in color, it usually means it contains more nutrients.
Is Miracle Grow Toxic?
When it comes to Miracle-Gro it is seen as both nontoxic and not hazardous for both humans and dogs. However, this does not mean it’s not harmful to both human and dog health if ingested or if contact is made with your skin. For example, it can irritate if it comes into direct contact with your eyes or skin, and you should contact a vet or doctor for advice, if possible.
If Miracle-Gro is ingested, it can cause gut issues such as sickness and diarrhea. If this happens to you or your dog, you should keep hydrated and seek medical advice from either a vet or a doctor.
Miracle-Gro vs Organic Fertilizer
Miracle-Gro is a type of synthetic fertilizer and there are many differences between organic fertilizers and synthetic fertilizers. Simply put, organic fertilizers are made from natural resources, whereas synthetic fertilizers are man-made in a lab. Let’s take a look at some of the differences between the two.
Synthetic fertilizers feed the plant, whereas organic fertilizers feed the soil and give both the plant and soil nutrition. As well as this, synthetic fertilizers are easy to find and usually cheaper than organic fertilizers. Also, while organic fertilizers are great for the entire ecosystem, synthetic fertilizers usually do little for the surrounding environment or soil; just the plant itself.
It’s also worth mentioning that if used too much, synthetic fertilizers can burn your plants whereas this is unlikely to happen with organic fertilizers. And finally, if you’re looking for exact measurements on nutrients, synthetic fertilizers are precise; whereas organic can vary.
Organic Fertilizers to Use Instead
You may decide that you’d prefer to use organic fertilizers for your garden. If so, you can try one of the following options:
- alfalfa meal
- making your own compost
- leaf mulch
Safety Precautions in Using This Plant Food
Here are some more important reminders when using the Miracle-Gro product:
1. According to its Manufacturer’s Safety Data Sheet, when it is accidentally ingested, immediately rinse your mouth with water. Seek medical attention immediately. Call a doctor or poison control center and do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so.
2. If a person accidentally inhales its powder, take them outside or to a well-ventilated area and monitor for subsequent irritation. If coughing or additional problems persist, call out for medical assistance.
3. If irritation on the skin happens, remove the contaminated clothing. Wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water. If irritation occurs and becomes persistent, ask for help for medical intervention.
4. Always wash your hands after handling the product. Avoid inhaling the specks of dust present in the product. Put it in a tightly sealed container and keep it closed when it is not in use.
5. Using the original packaging of the product is still the best way to store the remaining plant food. By doing this, you can ensure that this will not be mistakenly identified as other products, which, in turn, may present a risk to one’s health.
6. Apply the product properly. Read the instructions very well, even if you already know how to do it. The packaging will show you how, when, and where to apply the product properly.
7. Keep this out of reach of children. Store the product away from your home. It is better to store it in your garden storeroom or maybe in the garage. In this way, you will prevent further accidents from happening inside your household.
8. Keep it away from direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures may damage the composition of the product, thus, altering its effectivity in the growth of your plants.
Conclusion
I hope this post has helped to answer the question: is miracle grow toxic? The truth is, it’s marked as nontoxic. However, it can cause many issues if it is ingested, so it’s important to be extremely cautious with this product when using it; particularly if you have pets. Do you have any tips or tricks when it comes to using Miracle-Gro? If so, please feel free to let me know in the comments below. And remember, sharing is caring!
FAQs
What’s a good resource on how to use it?
The Miracle-Gro website provides a lot of information on the product, including how to use it and why it’s so effective. There are also links to other Miracle-Gro products that might be better for your plants. The site also has many helpful tips on how to get the most from your Miracle-Gro products. You can learn about how to get the best results with your plants by reading the Miracle-Gro Tips page.
How toxic is Miracle Grow?
Miracle Grow is probably one of the most popular and well-known plants sold at your local garden center. It is also one of the most controversial and toxic weeds to be found in gardens.
Miracle Grow is a very effective herbicide and can be used as a foliar feeder. Many people believe that Miracle Grow is the only way to control this pesky weed. While Miracle Grow does work, it is not the best choice for every situation. In some cases, you will need to use other methods such as hand pulling, mechanical removal, or even using a herbicide.
The problem with Miracle Grow is that it can cause damage to your lawn and even harm your grass. You may also be at risk of having your lawn become infested with Miracle Grow.
Miracle Grow is the third most toxic pesticide on the market. The top two are Roundup and 2,4-D, both of which have been linked to cancer and other health problems.
EWG’s report found that Miracle Grow contains an ingredient called metolachlor which is classified as a probable human carcinogen. According to the EWG, metolachlor is one of the most heavily used pesticides in the country.
Why you shouldn’t use Miracle-Gro?
Miracle-Gro and other chemical lawn care products are not bad for your lawn, but they can be harmful to the environment and your health.
If you don’t have to, don’t. When it comes to plants, there are many ways to make sure your garden is thriving. The best approach is to start with the basics: healthy soil, well-placed and properly sized plants, and a water supply that keeps your garden well-watered.
Generally speaking, you should stop using Miracle-Gro and go organic.
February 2, 2023
Perlite vs Pumice – Which is The Better Soil Amendment?
Let’s talk about perlite vs pumice. Both perlite and pumice are great soil amendments, especially for succulents and cacti. However, the question on most gardeners’ minds even the experienced ones is, which is the better soil amendment between the two?
There are some factors to consider that will help determine if perlite is better than pumice and vice versa. So, read on to find out more about these two materials.
Perlite & Pumice
Perlite and pumice are both used to enhance soil aeration and help to reduce waterlogging. They don’t retain water, thereby making them an excellent draining soil material. Potted plants such as succulents and cacti cannot do well with just soil. Their soil needs to be amended with coarse pebble materials to better suit their requirements. Thus, soil amendments like perlite and pumice are used.
First things first, let’s take a look at the characteristics and features of both so we can better understand them. It’s good you understand what they are made of and where they came from so you can decide which is better.
Perlite Features & Uses
Perlite is derived from a mined silicon rock that has been crushed, heated, and expanded. It also contains other minerals like iron oxide, potassium oxide, and sodium oxide.
Perlite is light in weight and color. Before the process of heating, perlite can be brown, red, gray, green, or blue. However, after it has been heated, it becomes light gray or white.
Perlite is commonly used in ceiling tiles, roof insulation, and for plastering. In addition to these household and industrial uses, they are also used in gardening and hydroponics. It is also a great choice for seedling starters as well as root cuttings.
Pumice Features & Uses
Pumice is derived from volcanic eruptions or explosions. It comes from the same type of molten rock that would form granite. Pumice requires much less processing than perlite, so its production is more environmentally friendly.
Pumice is quite soft but not as lightweight as perlite. It is usually referred to as solidified rock foam. Pumice rocks are capable of floating in the water as they contain some air that makes them light enough to float.
Pumice is mostly used for construction and horticulture. Unlike regular concrete blocks, the concrete block that has pumice has a lighter weight and enhanced insulating features. They are used in the garden as soil amendments and they can also be used as a growing medium in hydroponic gardening.
Pumice is especially great for plants that are heavy and predisposed to turning over in the water, as it will keep them rooted in one place.
Perlite Vs Pumice
Let’s compare some features between perlite vs pumice to know our best pick:
- The pumice stone comes in various sizes to suit various requirements and they are lightweight but not as lightweight as perlite.
- Pumice is capable of floating but it is still a little heavier than perlite so it can’t be blown away by wind or storm, unlike perlite.
- Heavy potted plants that are prone to tipping over are better off planted in pumice rather than perlite to keep them steady. Thus, your plants are safe from wind, heavy rain, as well as routine watering.
- Unlike perlite, pumice does not decompose easily. This implies it can last you for a long time without the need for replacement thus, reducing running costs.
- Perlite is not as pricey as pumice. It’s easier to purchase them at your local garden center or nursery.
- Perlite is also easy to access, however, pumice might be expensive in your zone and it might be difficult to get the appropriate sizes that you need. Mostly, bigger sizes of pumice are common. However, smaller sizes may not be always available. The good news is that there are various retailers online where you can obtain the appropriate type and size that you want. All you need to do is to pay a bit for the shipping fee and have your pumice delivered comfortably to your doorstep.
USA Pumice – 1.25 Dry Quarts
Check Price on Amazon
Pumice vs Perlite For Indoor Plants
Both pumice and perlite are excellent for improving soil properties such as drainage and water retention. However, pumice has better porosity and therefore offers better drainage potential. But perlite is better at retaining moisture compared to pumice.
Both products are used for different purposes in indoor gardens. Pumice is better suited for tropical plants that need to retain water, while perlite works better for plants like orchids as a soil supplement.
Pumice and perlite will improve the following soil properties when used properly for the appropriate plants;
- soil drainage
- soil aeration
In terms of having particle size options to fit the size of your indoor plant pots or planters, perlite offers more options. Other advantages of perlite include that it is more readily available for purchase, as well as that it is stable and will not disintegrate over time or release any chemicals into the soil.
Unless you absolutely have to use pumice, we would recommend perlite as our amendment of choice due to the many advantages and choices that it offers.
What is Perlite Made Of?
Perlite is a naturally occurring mineral. It exists as a type of glass in nature, that is formed when volcanic obsidian glass is saturated with water, a process that happens over a long period.
Like all other volcanic rock, it is pretty dense and heavy in its natural form. Typical perlite is made up of the following ingredients;
- 70-75% silicon dioxide
- Aluminum oxide
- Sodium oxide
- Potassium oxide
- Iron oxide
- Magnesium oxide
- Calcium oxide
- 3-5% Water
Before the use of pumice in plants, it has to be processed into the light stuff that we see, which looks like styrofoam.
What is Pumice Made Of?
Pumice is also a type of volcanic glass. It is very porous and is formed when there are explosive volcanic eruptions. The high porous nature of the pumice is caused by depressurization and rapid cooling after the lava gets ejected from the volcano.
Pumice in its natural form has colors that range from white to dark grey, depending on the place where it is mined. Some gardeners use pumice as a top dress for their soil to give it a more attractive look than just the soil or dirt.
Pumice Or Perlite For Succulents?
Both pumice and perlite can be used for succulents. However succulents like pumice more. This is because pumice absorbs and releases water slowly while helping aerate the roots through the soil at the same time.
If you are using organic soil to grow your succulents, we would highly recommend that you add some pumice to it, this will greatly help your plants. You can also grow succulents using only pumice, you will however need to be very careful with your watering frequency, as too much may damage your plants.
Pumice is also a bit heavier than perlite. It will work better for top-heavy plants like some succulents by helping to stabilize them. Because it is heavier, it also means that there will be less waste as you will not use much product through wind, rain, and routine watering.
Perlite Vs Pumice: The Option Chosen
Even though the two are great, we still have one clear winner. So, our pick is pumice! Pumice is an excellent option especially in enhancing the soil in your succulent.
Conclusion – Perlite Vs Pumice
Both perlite and pumice are great for soil amendments in your garden. They will both enhance soil aeration and drainage for your succulents, cacti, and other plants.
However, pumice is of greater option because it is long-lasting, doesn’t decompose easily, will hold your heavy plant steady, and so on. The main downside to pumice is that it’s a bit more pricy than perlite, and not as easily accessible.
All in all, you should go for the one that will suit your needs and plants best.
FAQ’s
What’s the difference between pumice stone and perlite?
Pumice is a volcanic rock that contains many small air pockets. It can be used as a light weight, inexpensive, effective insulation material. Perlite is a lightweight, expanded, non-combustible glassy volcanic rock with excellent insulating properties. Both are used for insulation in building construction. Pumice is often used as a form of insulation because it is soft and easy to work with.
The most common use of pumice is in the production of lightweight building materials. These include lightweight concrete blocks and panels. Pumice is also used as an aggregate in asphalt. It is also used for decorative purposes in garden and outdoor applications. When pumice is combined with water, it becomes a hydraulic cement.
Pumice is pretty good but if you get it from the hardware store it’s often dusty and has grit in it. It’s not as fine as perlite.The grit can be dangerous in certain applications so I’d avoid using it unless you have to.
Perlite is much finer than pumice. It is also naturally non-toxic. You’ll need to test it with a magnet and a metal detector. If you find any iron or other metals, then don’t use it. It could give off harmful fumes when burned.
Can I use pumice instead of perlite?
Yes, it is possible. Pumice has a higher water content than perlite, so you may need to increase the amount of fertilizer you use. Pumice has a low level of nutrients, so you will need to fertilize your plants. It also doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals. You can use pumice as a soil conditioner, too. Pumice is one of the best soils for growing plants.
Pumice is used to create a rich, fertile soil by adding it to topsoil. It is said to improve drainage and to prevent the collapse of the soil structure.
It is also used as a mulch for plants that prefer cooler temperatures, such as strawberries, tomatoes, and peppers.
Pumice is a great material for weed prevention. It keeps the soil loose and aerated, which helps to keep weeds from growing. If you are having problems with weed growth, try using pumice.
Is pumice better than perlite?
I have used both, and they work about the same. They both will absorb water, and they both are fine.
The only difference is that perlite absorbs water more quickly than pumice, so if you’re starting a seedling from seed, use pumice instead of perlite. You can also buy hydroponic soil mix. It comes in a bag with nutrients already added. You’ll probably want to add some fertilizer as well, but that’s up to you.
January 31, 2023
Starting Seeds In Rockwool Cubes – How To Do It Successfully
Starting seeds in Rockwool cubes can be a great process for your plant’s growing experience. Rockwool is a soil-free medium or substrate that can be used for starting seeds. They can as well be used in hydroponics or stem rooting.
Rockwool offers so many benefits to almost any type of plant which makes it popular and best-loved among most growers.
This article attempts to enlighten you on germinating seeds in Rockwool cubes and more, so read on to learn.
Let Us Get To Know What Rockwool Cubes Are
Rockwool is made from spinning chalk and basalt rock, which are then formed into a thick mat of natural fibers. The combinations are made to look like the consistency of cotton candy. The spun fibers are then combined with a binding agent. The materials are pressed and formed into cubes which we know as Rockwool cubes. Mostly, Rockwool cubes can come in one or two inches sizes: although, you can also obtain bigger Rockwool cubes of about four inches.
The smallest Rockwool sizes are the most appropriate for starting seeds, leaf cuttings, and stem propagation. Bigger rock wool cubes are mainly used to grow denser plants.
A Guide On Germinating Seeds In Rockwool Cubes
It is important to know how to germinate seeds for hydroponics with rockwool. Seed germination (whether for hydroponics or conventional soil planting) requirements can sometimes demand careful and precise planning or processes. Take for instance moisture requirements: moisture is an essential factor when it comes to seed germination.
Therefore, a Rockwool cube is a great choice to use in germinating seeds because it can retain moisture. Rockwool cubes will keep your seeds moist while preventing them from sitting in a waterlogged environment. They can retain just the right amount of water to keep your seeds from drying out thereby improving seed germination.
Read more about How to Use Rapid Rooters Plugs
How To Start Seeds In Rockwool
- The first step to take in germinating seeds in Rockwool cubes is the preparation of the Rockwool cubes. Rockwool cubes need to be soaked in pH-adjusted reverse osmosis water before use. They don’t require too much soaking; however, ensure the cubes are fully absorbed in water.
- Soaking is required because rockwool cubes usually have a high pH of about 7.8 but your seeds will require a pH of 5.5 which is a slightly acidic medium. This way, your seeds will have the best chance of germinating and sprouting appropriately.
- Remove the Rockwool cubes from the soaked water and give them a gentle shake to take off the excess water. However, don’t squeeze them. Now your cubes are ready to be placed in your germinating tray.
- Most rockwool cubes have holes in them, so get your seeds and drop them into the holes of the Rockwool cubes. With a toothpick or other identical objects, gently push down the seeds to the bottom holes.
- Now squeeze the rockwool hole to close them or simply break off a little piece of the Rockwool from the sides to cover the top. The seeds need to be placed in a dark environment.
- Next, cover the rockwool cubes with a humidity dome so that they can maintain a humid environment. Keep them at 70 to 80 degrees. Now you can place them in a gentle grow light.
- You can maintain a moist environment by misting them with a spray bottle whenever you notice them drying out. Sprouting should be noticed after a couple of days, depending on the plant seeds that you are germinating.
- When the seedlings are about 2 to 3 inches, they are ready to be transplanted into your hydroponics or traditional soil.
Benefits Of Start Seeds In Rockwool
Here are the benefits your seeds stand to enjoy by using rockwool cubes for germinating seeds.
- Water Retention: Rockwool cubes have excellent water retention capacity which is very essential for the germination of your seeds. At the same time, Rockwool will not waterlog your system. It can drain excess water, retaining just the right amount of water needed by your seeds to germinate.
- Air Circulation: Rockwool cubes will provide good air circulation and oxygenation of the root system.
- Clean: Rockwool is a clean or sterile medium and it doesn’t have any weeds, pathogens, or pests.
- Reusable: Rockwool cubes don’t decompose over time. Therefore, it can be reused over again.
- Safe: they are made from natural materials. Thus, it is very safe to use for your germinating seeds because it doesn’t contain any toxic substances.
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Common Problems With Germinating Seeds In Rockwool
While rockwool is a very reliable medium to use for germinating seeds, it is not without its fair share of troubles. Here are some of the most common problems and how you can tackle them head-on if you ever experience seeds not sprouting in rock wool.
- Temperature
One of the most popular problems associated with seeds not sprouting in rockwool is the temperature. It could be that the temperature is too hot or too cold to support germination. If you investigate and find this to be the case with your seeds not sprouting, move your rockwool cubes into a warmer or colder environment as required. If this is not possible, you can purchase a germination chamber such as this one which comes with a heat mat tray that can be used to attain more favorable temperatures, especially in colder climates.
- Poor seed quality
Sometimes all the conditions may be right in your rockwool cubes, but if the seeds are of poor quality, the rate of germination will be low or completely zero. Poor seed quality is mostly due to the degradation of the seed. This usually happens over time. Seed death or degradation starts to happen as soon as the seed is mature and viable.
Generally, seeds will have high germination rates for the 2-3 years of their lives with an average of 80% success. Once this rate hits about 75%, the seeds start to lose their ability to germinate quickly. As a result, old seeds have poor quality and will not germinate properly. Be sure to use the freshest and newest seeds to germinate in rockwool.
To try and increase the shelf life of your seedlings, carefully store them in airtight glass jars and place them in the refrigerator or freeze them. You can put a little bit of powdered milk or wrap the seeds in a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
- pH Imbalance
Rockwool has a naturally high pH, which makes it highly alkaline when wet. A lot of seeds germinate poorly in alkaline conditions and prefer slightly acidic ones. To get the right pH for your plants, irrigate the rockwool cubes with an acidic nutrient solution to re-balance the pH of the growing environment.
- Mold
Although rockwool has a high moisture content that prevents plant roots from dying out, this moisture can promote the growth of fungi. These fungi will encourage seeds to mold and rot instead of germinating properly. If you notice mold starting to form, irrigate less.
- Insufficient airflow
Insufficient airflow through the Rockwool cubes can also create problems for seed germination. To prevent this issue from occurring, avoid crushing or compressing your rockwool so that it retains enough air pockets to allow for sufficient airflow.
What Is The Best Time To Transplant Rockwool Seedlings
Knowing when to transplant rockwool seedlings is an important determining factor in getting good survival rates for transplanted seedlings.
Transplant seedlings when they reach a height of about 2-3 inches in height. Also, check that the roots of the seedlings are beginning to poke out at the bottom of the cubes. By this time, they should also have developed a full set of two to three sets of true leaves.
After your seedlings in the rockwool cubes have developed and are ready to transplant, simply plug the cubes and plant them directly into your grow sites and your plants are ready to go!
How To Care For Seedlings In Rockwool
Taking good care of seedlings post-germination is also important to ensure a successful crop. Here are the measures that you need to take to;
- Before you need to transplant the seedlings, place the Rockwool cubes in a nursery tray and cover it with a humidity done to ensure that the moisture stays locked in and the Rockwool never runs dry
- Maintain an environmental temperature of between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit
- Keep the rockwool cubes moist by consistently spraying them with water every few days when you notice them starting to dry out.
- Remove the Rockwool cubes from the humidity cube and place them under the light as soon as the seeds start to sprout
Closing Remarks- Starting Seeds In Rockwool Cubes
Rockwool cubes are a great substrate for seed starters. They are safe and will provide your seed with good moisture and oxygen for optimal germination.
They come in various sizes and shapes and they can blend into different growing systems. So, give your seeds an excellent germinating chance with Rockwool.
FAQ’s
Why won’t my seeds germinate in rockwool?
The problem might be that they are not getting enough light. Rockwool is a great product for growing plants and it has been used for centuries. It’s made from ground-up volcanic rock so it provides nutrients and structure for plants to grow. It also helps maintain moisture in the growing medium. There are many different types of rockwool, each with its own unique properties.
Rockwool is like a sponge and absorbs all moisture from the air. It’s great for storing seeds but if you put them in it they won’t get a chance to germinate. You need to keep your seed starting containers dry and make sure you water the soil before you cover the seeds with the rockwool. I would use vermiculite for a seed starting medium because it’s a bit drier than the rockwool.
Do seedlings need nutrients in rockwool?
As long as they are not sitting in wet rockwool, yes. If you do not want to water them, use a bulb planter and keep them in a shaded area. If you’re going to be transplanting them to larger containers, you can add some nutrients to the potting mix if you want to. If you have the fertilizer that comes with the plant, that will be fine. You could also use a diluted liquid fertilizer such as a 10-10-10.
How often should you water seedlings in rockwool?
Rockwool needs more frequent watering than soil because it does not absorb water as well. It is best to water your Rockwool when the top inch or so of the material is wet, which usually happens within 24 hours. It is important to keep the surface of the material damp, but not wet. If the Rockwool dries out too much, it will crack and become brittle. If you see a rockwool plant that appears to be drying out, cut off the top few inches and let it dry out again before re-watering. Once you have cut back on the water supply, wait for the top inch or so of the material to be wet again, and then re-water. You can also use a spray bottle with a fine mist setting to apply water directly to the Rockwool.
Can I start seeds in rockwool cubes?
It would be fine as long as you keep it moist enough. I think it should be fine to use sand or even peat moss as long as it’s not very wet. As far as keeping it moist, I have a few suggestions:
1. You can put a humidifier in the room where the cubes are.
2. You can put a small fan in the room with the cubes and blow on them.
3. You can use a misting system (like a misting bottle). I’ve heard of people putting plastic bags over their plants and then cutting holes in the bags to spray water into. That way the plant doesn’t dry out.
January 21, 2023
Potassium Sulfate For Plants – Is It Soluble, And How Do You Use It?
Most farmers and at-home gardeners often wonder about the use of potassium sulfate for plants, whether it dissolves in the soil and how exactly to use it. Here we discuss this fertilizer so that farmers can have a better understanding of it and its application.
Potassium sulfate is an excellent source of potassium for plants. It provides the essential plant nutrient in a stable PH-neutral form. With some brands certified as organic, you can choose from a wide variety of commercially available brands.
Potassium fertilizers come in different types. If you don’t understand their differences, it can be difficult to distinguish them. Potassium sulfate is the best choice for both organic and conventional gardeners.
Is Potassium Sulfate Soluble?
Not all potassium sulfate fertilizers are alike. There are synthetic potassium sulfates and those that are organic certified. The potassium sulfate that comes from natural mining sources is the one that is certified organic. This potassium has not undergone any kind of further processing.
Unfortunately, some unprocessed raw materials are not water-soluble. They carry unwanted minerals that do not help the plant when put into the soil. Only a few sources of organic potassium sulfate are soluble. Knowledgeable sales staff should be able to tell you the source of their fertilizers. And whether their product is soluble or not.
While some brands of potassium sulfate fertilizer claim to be 100% soluble, potassium sulfate itself has low solubility when compared to other potassium fertilizers such as potassium chloride. This may present challenges when it is applied in the soil, as it will not dissolve well through irrigation.
It is also important to know the grade of the potassium fertilizer you are buying. Large particles of potassium sulfate are barely soluble and not a good choice. The best grade is the fines with small particles about 0.015mm and below. Fine grades dissolve more easily and are better to use in foliar sprays or irrigation.
Check this organic fertilizer from Down to Earth that provides a source of potassium, magnesium, and sulfur for your plants.
Essential Functions of Potassium Sulfate in Plants
Potassium sulfate helps to complete a majority of essential functions in plants. Some of these functions include:
- Activating enzyme reactions
- Synthesizing proteins
- Forming starch and sugars
- Regulating water flow in leaves and cells
In most cases, potassium in the soil is too low to support healthy plant growth. And for this reason, you can choose to add potassium sulfate to the soil in which you grow your plants.
How To Use Potassium Sulfate In Soil
A potassium deficiency in plants usually manifests itself in leaves turning yellow. To provide fast-acting potassium to such plants, it is best to use foliar feeding sprays. The foliar spray made from clean water and soluble potassium stops the problem from spreading.
Highly concentrated potassium fertilizer can burn the leaves. Be sure to use mild concentrations of foliar sprays. You would rather spray a mild concentration many times rather than use the concentrated one. Fertilizer packaging also usually comes with directions on it. You can also follow the application directions on the packaging if you are unsure.
The application rate depends on the quality of your soil. Apply 2 pounds of potassium sulfate per 100 square feet or 2 tablespoons per gallon of water.
What Does Potassium Sulfate Do For Plants?
As we have already stated, potassium sulfate is a source of potassium for plants. Potassium is an essential plant nutrient. Soils normally have an insufficient concentration of this nutrient to support healthy plant growth, so it needs to be supplemented via the addition of fertilizer.
So what does potassium sulfate do for plants when it is present in the soil? The addition of potassium sulfate to the soil will help improve the yield and quality of the plants that you are growing. It does this by positively contributing to essential plant functions such as activating the reactions of enzymes, the synthesis of proteins, the formation of starches and sugars, as well as the regulation of water flow in the leaves and cells. When these plant functions are supported, it sets the plants on a great path to good health and productivity.
Potassium sulfate is also a source of sulfur, another plant nutrient. Sulfur is used by plants to synthesize protein and is also required for enzyme function. Just like potassium, sulfur can too be deficient in soils. This deficiency will lead to inadequate plant growth.
Both the nutrients that plants get from potassium sulfate fertilizer are crucial for the health and well-being of plants. They must be provided with these nutrients in the right concentrations. An excess or lack of one or both of these nutrients will have your plants sick in no time.
How Much Potassium Sulfate Per Gallon?
Knowing the correct application rate of potassium sulfate is very important. Too little can greatly hamper the growth and plants and too much may burn otherwise healthy plants.
If you are doing a soil drench, the recommended dosage is 1-2 tablespoons per gallon of water. Make sure that this solution is evenly mixed before evenly drenching the soil with it.
The recommended dosage for potassium sulfate, if you are going to spray it on the plant leaves, is 1/2-1 teaspoon per gallon of water. Apply with even coverage over the leaves for the best results.
It is vital to know how to use potassium sulfate fertilizer. This is because it is different from other potash fertilizers. Its solubility may be low, and therefore will have different rules of application. To avoid damaging your plants, follow the prescribed application rates.
When Should You Add Potassium Sulfate To Your Garden?
So when should you apply potassium sulfate to your plants in the garden? Is it something to do as often as you irrigate or is there a particular time to do it? As with other nutrients, plants only take up potassium when they are in their active growth stage. On top of that, the soil in which they are planted has to be moist. The soil has to be moist or the potassium sulfate fertilizer has to be applied in liquid form so that the plants can take it up efficiently.
The best time to apply or add potassium sulfate to your plants is from early spring to late summer, which is when plants are in their best growth phase. Adding the fertilizer at the wrong time in the growth cycle of the plants will only result in waste, as it will not be taken up and used efficiently for the intended purposes.
Conclusion
This article provided you with information to help answer the questions that you had about the use of potassium sulfate for plants. Just like the human body, plants also experience a lack of necessary nutrients in the soil. A fertilizer that replenishes the plant’s nutrients is the same as supplements that humans need. Likewise, as you take your supplement today, be sure to check if your plants need some.
Before purchasing fertilizer of any kind for your plants, check whether they are natural or synthetic. Organic potassium for plants is best and will be obtained from natural or organic potash fertilizers.
FAQs
What is the best way to add potassium to soil?
Potassium (K) is one of the most important plant nutrients. It is present in soil in different forms and functions as a catalyst for many plant processes. In general, potassium is an essential nutrient for plants. It is not readily available from the soil. Plants can absorb potassium only when it is present in solution (e.g., in water). The amount of potassium in soil is very low and is also easily leached by rainfall and irrigation.
The best way to add potassium to soil is to apply potassium fertilizer in the form of potassium chloride. This material is soluble and has a high concentration of potassium. It is very easy to work with and can be applied either as a liquid or as granules. However, if you want to get the most out of your potassium fertilizer, you need to know how much potassium fertilizer to use. If you do not know the right amount, you will not get the full effect of your application. Potassium is an important plant nutrient. It is needed for proper development of roots and other plant parts. Plants absorb potassium from the soil. They cannot take potassium directly from their food (plants use photosynthesis to produce energy). Instead, they absorb potassium from the soil. You need to supply potassium to plants in two forms: organic and inorganic. Potassium in the form of organic material is found in soil and in organic matter that has been added to the soil. It can also be found in fertilizers. Potassium in the form of inorganic material is found in fertilizers.
How do you make liquid potassium fertilizer?
Plants use potassium to help build strong cell walls, improve photosynthesis, and maintain proper cellular levels of electrolytes. Potassium is an essential nutrient for plants and is considered a macronutrient. Like many other nutrients, potassium is used by plants in small amounts. Most plants will use potassium at the rate of 1% of their dry weight. To make liquid potassium fertilizer, mix a 1-pound bag of granular potassium chloride with water and stir to dissolve. Add 1/4 pound of magnesium sulfate per gallon of water and stir again. Filter the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove any remaining solids. Store the fertilizer in a glass container.
What plants need a lot of potassium?
Potassium is an essential mineral for plant growth. It is needed in the formation of chlorophyll, and it also helps regulate water and sugar levels in plants.
Potassium is also involved in the production of chlorophyll, and is used to make cell walls and connective tissue. Plants require potassium to help them absorb nutrients from the soil. The amount of potassium you need to feed your plants depends on several factors. These include:
The type of plant you’re feeding. Plants that are grown in soil tend to require more potassium than those that grow in water. Some types of plants, such as tomatoes, require only a small amount of potassium to grow. Other plants, such as cacti, will need a lot of potassium. The time of year when you feed the plant. When you feed a plant in the spring, it will absorb more potassium than it will when you feed it during the summer.
January 21, 2023
How Much Soil Is Needed For A 5-Gallon Pot?
Container gardening can take some calculations, especially if you’re working with a strict budget. You wouldn’t want to buy anything you don’t need. Knowing how much soil is needed for a 5-gallon pot can ensure you don’t have waste.
You’ll also need to determine how much fertilizer or water will keep plants in pots of this size thriving. The crop you choose to grow will also influence the soil, water, and fertilizer needs. These are just some factors you need to consider when container gardening.
In this article, I share how a 5-gallon pot looks, its capacity, and how much soil and water you’ll need for it.
5-Gallon Pot Size And Capacity
You can use a 5-gallon pot or container to grow various crops or flowers. You can even create a bonsai tree display to freshen your indoor areas. Here’s what you need to know about 5-gallon pots before purchasing one:
5-Gallon Pot Dimensions
The dimensions of 5-gallon pots differ. Some are wider, while others are deeper. Whether the bucket or container is round or squared also has an influence.
Round Pots: The average rounded 5-gallon pot is 12-15 inches tall and has a diameter of 10-12 inches.
Squared Pots: A squared 5-gallon bucket typically has a width of 9-11 inches and a lenght of 9 – 12 inches. Most are about 12 – 16 inches deep.
The mold used by manufacturers and the specific design of the pot are responsible for these variations.
5-Gallon Pot Capacity
A 5-gallon pot can produce enough fruit or veggies for one person, depending on what you plant. Some crops that grow great in containers and do well in pots of this size include:
Tomatoes: You can plant cherry or bush tomatoes in a 5-gallon pot. Don’t plant more than one plant per pot. If your plant is healthy, you can harvest about 300 cherry tomatoes and 10-30 pounds of bush tomatoes per season.
Eggplant: A 5-gallon pot can house only one eggplant at a time. You’ll harvest up to 15 eggplants from one tree.
Peppers: You can plant any pepper variety in a 5-gallon pot. Your crop yield will depend on the type you choose. Plant one or two pepper plants per container.
Cucumbers: Plant one cucumber per 5-gallon bucket. Use a trellis to help it grow upward.
Broccoli: You can grow one broccoli head in a 5-gallon pot. Continue to water your plant after the initial harvest – some plants produce another head.
Brussels Sprouts: One brussels sprout tree will fill a 5-gallon pot. If your plant gets heavy, stake it. You’ll harvest about five sprouts per week, adding up to more than 30 over the season.
How Much Soil Is Needed For A 5-Gallon Pot?
You’ll need about 0.7 cubic feet of soil to fill a 5-gallon pot. The type of soil you use, what you want to plant, and how it reacts to water will influence this amount.
If you’re planting crops, you won’t have to fill your pot all the way to the top. Before purchasing potting soil, be sure to research the crops you want to plant in your container garden. You might need less than 0.7 cubic feet per 5-gallon pot.
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How Much Water Is Needed Per Gallon Of Soil?
On average, you’ll require 2½ gallons of water for a 5-gallon pot filled with soil. This will vary depending on the crops you planted and how well your soil drains. Here’s what you’ll need for other sized pots:
- 1-gallon pot: ½ gallon of water
- 3-gallon pot: 1 ½ gallon of water
- 7-gallon pot: 3 ½ gallons of water
- 9-gallon pot: 4 ½ gallons of water
- 11-gallon pot: 5 ½ gallons of water
Using A 5-Gallon Terracotta Pot: What You Need To Know
Terracotta is a type of fired modeling clay used to create beautiful pots for gardens. You can use them indoors or out and plant flowers, fruits, or vegetables in them. Just take note:
- Terracotta clay is porous and absorbs water. You’ll have to water your crops more often or give them more per session if you want them to grow successfully.
- These pots are fragile. Place them in an area where you won’t move them.
- Place your terracotta pots in shaded areas to keep them cool. If they dry out fast, they’ll absorb more water.
- Plant crops that prefer dry soil like beans, corn, and eggplant.
- Use terracotta pots when planting crops prone to developing root rot or soil diseases.
The Benefits Of Container Gardening – How Much Soil Is Needed For A 5-Gallon Pot?
Whether you plant your crops in 5-gallon pots, other containers, or a square-foot garden, there are many benefits to keeping your crops raised. Here are my favorites!
Space Saving: You’ll use less space when planting your crops in pots. It’s an ideal solution if you don’t have land or need to garden on a balcony.
Control: You’ll have more control over your soil, watering sessions, and plant needs when using a raised gardening method.
Portable: Planting in 5-gallon or bigger buckets allow you to move your garden around. This is extremely helpful, especially if you live in an area that gets hot days and cold nights.
Variety: Planting in buckets allow for more variety. You can grow one crop per container to ensure you grow something of everything without the different crops impacting one another.
Less Work: You won’t have as much maintenance work when planting in pots. There’ll be fewer weeds to pluck, and working with the crops in your containers won’t be as strenuous.
Final Words – How Much Soil Is Needed For A 5-Gallon Pot?
How Much Soil Is Needed For A 5-Gallon Pot? Gardening in a 5-gallon pot is practical and easy. You’ll use less soil and water and have a wider variety of crops. There are different designs and materials to choose from, so shop around until you find a pot that works for you!
I hope this article was helpful and a good read. If you have more questions about gardening in containers or different-sized pots, ask them in the comments.
October 19, 2022
Coffee Grounds On Tomato Plants: Why And How
Adding coffee grounds on tomato plants may benefit your crops. Here’s a few reasons to try it!
Organic gardening can seem impossible when you’re starting out. The market is flooded with synthetic fertilizers, and gaining knowledge about organic ones takes time. Coffee grounds are a quick, easy-to-use organic fertilizer that even beginners can master.
In this article, I explain how you can keep your garden organic with coffee grounds on your tomato plants, what coffee does for your soil, and how tomatoes can benefit if you add it to your soil mix.
Organic Gardening With Coffee Grounds As Fertilizer For Tomatoes
Although not scientifically proven, many gardeners believe coffee grounds benefit their tomato plants.
There’s no concrete evidence to show coffee grounds make tomatoes grow faster or kill pests around them. However, gardeners have taken it upon themselves to test this theory out.
Many tomato plant enthusiasts report a difference in their tomato gardens compared to when they weren’t using coffee grounds. Coffee grounds are a popular fertilization method for organic gardening.
Will Coffee Grounds Kill Plants?
Coffee grounds won’t necessarily kill your plants, but they may hold some disadvantages.
Tomato plants love acidic soil. Coffee grounds bring the pH balance of soil down, making it perfect for this red fruit. The plants next to them don’t like this as much. You might want to skip the coffee grounds if you grow different crops in the same beds as your tomatoes.
Coffee grounds can leave other crops without the nutrients they need and suck the water in the soil up. This can stunt growth.
Your plants may even dehydrate. Coffee grounds group together to form a thick, hard layer. This can stop water from running through the soil to your plant’s roots.
Do Coffee Grounds Add Nitrogen To Soil?
Apart from making the soil acidic, one of the biggest advantages for tomato plants is the nitrogen present in coffee grounds. Most gardeners use coffee grounds in their organic gardens because of this.
Coffee grounds contain nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These vital minerals fertilize the soil and help you grow healthy tomatoes. Coffee also acts as a slow-release fertilizer to ensure your tomato plants are fed for a longer period.
Reasons To Add Coffee Grounds On Tomato Plants
Although none of these benefits have been proven, you can still add coffee grounds to the soil around your tomato plants for the next reasons.
Coffee Grounds Contain Vital Minerals
Coffee grounds are packed with minerals like nitrogen, calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc. Adding them to your soil will slowly release these to your plant roots.
Tomato plants need these nutrients for healthy growth. Potassium helps them photosynthesis while nitrogen encourages stronger leaf growth. Magnesium improves fruit quality.
Coffee Grounds Make Soil More Acidic
Tomatoes thrive in acidic soil. Adding coffee grounds will lower the pH level of your soil to help it meet your plants’ requirements.
You should use coffee grounds mixed into peat moss for the best results. The acidity in the coffee grounds will reduce over time.
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Coffee Grounds May Prevent Fungal Diseases – Coffee Grounds On Tomato Plants
Some harmful fungal diseases that affect tomato plants include anthracite fruit rot and early flight. Many gardeners claim that coffee grounds help combat these diseases and keep their plants healthy.
Coffee Grounds May Keep Pests Away
The love slugs have for tomato plants is one-sided. These critters can harm your harvest, leaving ugly and inedible tomatoes behind.
Researchers tested the effect coffee grounds have on slugs, and it turns out that they don’t want to come near it. There’s no reason to not give this slug repellent a try!
Cats also don’t like the smell of coffee, so they won’t use your soil as a litter box if you use grounds.
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How Do You Add Coffee Grounds To Tomato Plants?
There are many options if you want to add coffee grounds to your organic garden. Here are some ways you can use it to benefit your tomato plants:
Mixing Coffee Grounds Into The Soil
You can simply mix some coffee grounds into your soil before planting your tomato seeds or seedlings. This will allow it to act as a root fertilizer.
The coffee grounds will ensure nitrogen levels in your soil rise. It will also help keep pests away and make the soil more acidic and favorable for tomato growth.
Just be careful to not add too much to your soil. Doing this can cause drainage issues and harm other plants nearby.
Use Coffee Grounds In Your Compost – Coffee Grounds On Tomato Plants
Mixing coffee grounds into your already established compost is the best and safest way to use it. This will ensure your plants receive the benefits of coffee grounds and the compost you choose.
Your final compost mix should contain a 1 to 4 green to brown ratio. Coffee grounds are considered a green compost material.
Use Coffee Grounds As A Mulch
Mulch helps keep moisture in the ground, prevents weed growth, and promotes a healthy composition. Mixing coffee grounds into your regular mulch will ensure your tomato plants get extra nitrogen.
Add Coffee Grounds In The Water
You can create a liquid fertilizer by making coffee with coffee grounds and water. You should add no more than 2 cups of ground with 5 gallons of water.
I suggest spraying it on your tomatoes at least once a week.
Wrapping Up – Coffee Grounds On Tomato Plants
Coffee grounds are relatively cheap, easy to get, and even easier to use in an organic garden. Adding it to your tomato beds can greatly benefit them and help you harvest more healthy tomatoes than ever before!
While no concrete evidence has been penned about the use of coffee grounds on tomato plants, many gardeners live by it. It’s a key ingredient in keeping tomato plants healthy when organic gardening. If you keep the ratio of coffee grounds to other soil nutrients balanced, you have nothing to lose by at least trying.
I hope you found this article helpful and enjoyed reading it. If you have more questions about using coffee grounds in your garden, ask them in the comments.
October 16, 2022
What Are The Tiny Grey Bugs In Houseplant Soil?
If you are growing any type of houseplant, you may wonder what are those tiny grey bugs in houseplant soil and how to treat them.
There are many types of houseplants that are easy to grow, however, bugs are a big problem for houseplants. To help us understand these tiny grey bugs, let’s learn what they are and how to control them.
What Are The Tiny Grey Bugs In Houseplant Soil?
Houseplants are home to a number of beneficial insects, including ladybirds, lacewings, and hoverflies. But houseplants also harbor a range of pests that can cause problems for you and your plants. One common pest is the small grey bug, which feeds on the roots of houseplants.
These tiny grey bugs are actually called nematodes. They can be parasites or predators. These are not normal bugs, but microscopic creatures that can harm other insects, mites, or worms.
Nematodes have a hard outer covering and move slowly through the soil. They feed on bacteria and other tiny organisms in the soil. Some species can even eat other nematodes. We have a lot of different types of nematodes, some of which are good for plant growth.
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How Do The Tiny Grey Bugs In Houseplant Soil Affect The Plants?
Some nematode species can be harmful to houseplants. A common problem with these is called root gall. This is when a worm has entered the roots of a houseplant and started feeding on them. If a worm gets into the root system of a plant, it may cause damage to the plant. The root cells can be destroyed, and nutrients can be lost from the plant. This can make the plant weak, or it can even kill it.
The plant will not grow as well as it could, and may even die. This can happen when you have a new plant in your house. If you have not looked after the plant properly, you may have just placed it in your house. It may have been bought from a garden centre or other shop.
The most common type of nematode is called the roundworm. This is a common pest in the soil around houseplants. It is often found in soil that has been treated with fertiliser. This can attract many different types of pests to the soil. These nematodes can feed on bacteria and other microorganisms in the soil, and then move up into the roots of plants. They are usually found in soil that is high in nitrogen. This is because they feed on bacteria and fungi, which are more common in nitrogen-rich soil.
What Are The Causes Of Nematode Infestation?
The most common cause of nematode infestation in the garden is the use of contaminated seeds. If you buy seeds and plants from a reputable supplier, there is no reason why you should not have a healthy garden. It is important to remember that most seeds sold as organic or heirloom are not free from contamination.
What Are The Symptoms Of Nematode Infestation?
There are different types of nematodes that cause symptoms in your garden. Some are visible, others are not. The most common symptom is a general weakening of the plant, however, this can be caused by a number of other factors.
How Can I Prevent Nematode Infestation?
Nematode infestation can be avoided by buying only from a reputable supplier who ensures that their stock is free from contamination. The supplier should also provide a guarantee for the quality of the eggs and larvae.
How Do I Treat Nematodes? – Tiny Grey Bugs In Houseplant Soil
Nematode treatment should only be carried out by a professional. You should only use a professional pest control service, or you will risk spreading them further around your home. Professional treatments are best carried out using specialised equipment and techniques.
Preventing the spread of nematodes is easier than treating them. The best way to prevent nematode problems is to avoid over-watering your garden and lawn, especially during summer.
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The best time to treat for nematodes is when you see the first signs of damage, and as soon as possible. This will reduce the risk of spreading the infestation to other parts of your garden.
You can try to prevent nematode infestations by applying a pesticide to your garden at least two weeks before planting, but it may not always be effective.
Take Home – Tiny Grey Bugs In Houseplant Soil
The earlier you notice and deal with the tiny grey bugs in houseplant soil, the better in ensuring your plant’s safety. We recommend that you check your plants every two weeks for signs of infestation, and if you do find bugs, remove them from your houseplant immediately. You don’t want to be doing any damage to the plant while you’re trying to get rid of it. The earlier you get rid of them, the better.
FAQ’s
What are these tiny grey bugs?
These tiny grey bugs are some of the most destructive pests you will ever come across n your houseplants.
How do you get rid of mites in houseplant soil?
The best way to remove them from your houseplants is to wash your plant and use a spray bottle to wet the leaves thoroughly and spray them with a solution of water, dish soap and a few drops of dishwashing liquid. Do this once every week or two and the mites will disappear.
Are soil mites harmful to plants?
Yes, they are harmful to the plants but the good news is that they are easy to get rid of! A good way to keep them under control is to wash your plant thoroughly and spray it with a solution of water, dish soap and a few drops of dishwashing liquid. Do this once every week or two and you will be fine!
What do houseplant mites look like?
They look like tiny grey bugs that crawl around on your plant leaves. They can be found on the underside of the leaf and often near the midrib of the leaf. If you notice that your houseplants have become stunted or have yellowing leaves, this is a sure sign that they are infected with mites. If this happens, you should contact your local nursery for advice on how to deal with the problem. It is completely safe to use dishwashing liquid to control mites on your houseplants. You just need to make sure that you use the right dilution. It is best to use a 10-20% solution. A 20% solution means that you will be spraying your plants with 1 part dishwashing liquid to 10 parts of water. The dishwashing liquid will help to loosen up the soil so that the mites can be washed away.
July 17, 2022
Does Potting Soil Go Bad? The Truth About This
If you’ve been in a situation where you find an old bag of potting soil and you wonder if can be of any use; then you’re not alone. The potting soil may just have been sitting outside the shed for a while and it may have you wondering what to do about it. Does potting soil go bad? We will deeply look into this question in this article.
Soil that is of great quality is required to successfully grow plants whether indoor or outdoor. Potting soil ensures the plant grows in an adequate medium. It ensures our plant receives the appropriate nutrient, care, and more for healthy plant growth.
Most times, when we purchase potting soil, we may get more than what we need. So, some soil tends to remain and this makes us keep them. But what we would like to know is this: does potting soil go bad?
Does Potting Soil Go Bad? Get To Know The Truth
Does potting soil go bad? The truth of the matter is that potting soil doesn’t have a particular expiry duration. However, it can go bad if it has been kept for a long time. Also, not storing potting soil appropriately can cause it to go bad.
How long Can Potting Soil Be Stored?
Once you’ve opened your potting soil, it should last around 6 to 12 months. Then for potting soil that has not been opened, it can be stored for about 1 year or two years.
What Is Potting Soil Composed Of?
You should know that not every potting soil contains the same ingredients and this is because various potting soil has different purposes. There is potting soil designed specifically for indoor use and they are usually well-draining soil. Outdoors potting soil on the other hand is made to retain moisture longer.
But let’s look at the general composition of potting soil for a container garden:
- Peat Moss: peat moss is a fibrous material that contains nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus for the growth of a plant.
- Perlite: this is a volcanic glass material and this composition helps improve water retention, soil aeration, and drainage.
- Vermiculite: this is a mineral that enhances soil water retention as well as soil aeration.
- Bark: bark is a shredded pine bark that helps increase soil aeration and water retention.
Why Will Potting Soil Go Bad?
Usually, potting soil is inclined to go bad due to the presence of degradable ingredients they are made up of. The majority of potting soil is made up of peat moss and other organic ingredients that tend to decompose over time. Peat moss for instance is at its best for about 1 to 2 years. So, after this, peat moss can start to decompose and make the potting soil go bad.
When this soil goes bad, it usually leads to the soil losing water retention and aeration. Hence, this makes the soil inappropriate to be used on any potted plant.
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How To Tell Your Potting Soil Has Gone Bad
Most potting soil does come with expiration dates so you can simply check the expiration date. However, there are times the expiration date isn’t clear. Or the expiration date has faded out. You can still determine when your potting soil has gone bad or expired through other means.
So, you can further tell if your potting soil has gone bad by doing some checking, and here are some signs to tell you that it has gone bad:
1.    Foul Smell
Once you begin to perceive this foul, rotten egg smell, that’s an indication that your potting soil has gone bad. The reason you perceive this bad smell is mainly because of the anaerobic bacteria that grow in this old, damp, and compacted soil.
2.    Soil Compaction
When your soil is compacted, it means it feels heavy or tightly packed. This is one common issue faced with old potting soil that comprises peat moss. Peat moss is best used from around 1 to 2 years of buying it and after this duration, the soil begins to go dense as it composes of other organic materials.
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3.    Mold Formation
Once you notice mold growing out of your potting soil, it has gone bad. This situation often occurs when the soil is stored inappropriately. For instance, storing potting soil that is damp in a closed bag for a long time can, especially during warm weather can cause the soil to begin to form mold.
4.    Insects Invasion
Insect invasion or infestation is another clear sign your potting soil has gone bad. Small insects such as fungus gnats thrive in soil, particularly moist soil. These insects can access your potting soil even when it’s closed through very tiny openings.
Once they access your soil, they begin to multiply by laying eggs. Inside your potting soil mix. They tend to encourage decomposition in a way that’s not healthy.
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Tips For Maintaining A Fresh Potting Soil
If you won’t be using your potting soil mix right away or you won’t be using all the soil, there are things you can do to maintain this soil mix for some period.
- Store your unused or unopened potting soil in a dry and cool container. Then once you’ve opened the potting soil bag, store it in a dry and cool air-tight container.
- You can revive your potting soil by mixing it in more nutrients if it has lost its nutrients before it expires.
- Blend or mix your old soil with fresh potting mix.
Conclusion – Does Potting Soil Go Bad?
Potting soil does go bad so if you find out that your old potting mix starts to give a foul odor or it’s bringing out mold; then it’s a sign the soil has gone bad.
We have discussed some details about potting soil going bad and we hope this piece of information has enlightened you.
FAQ’s
How do you know if potting soil is bad?
When potting soil has gone bad it will show some signs. The signs to determine your potting soil has gone bad include foul odor, mold formation, soil compaction, and insect infestation.
Is it okay to use old potting soil?
You can use old potting soil if the soil has no pests or diseases. So, ensure what you’ve used the soil to plant is totally healthy. However, sterilizing the potting soil mix is ideal for use against the next year’s planting season.
How long can you keep a bag of potting soil?
A potting soil that has not been opened can be kept and used for a duration of 1 to 2 years. However, once you have opened the potting soil, it will begin to degrade and you will have about 6 months to store it.
How do you rejuvenate old potting soil?
To rejuvenate your old potting soil, do the following: Spread and lay out the soil so you can clean the soil by taking out any debris such as rotted plant roots, weeds, and dead leaves. Then clean with water, mix the soil with a fresh mix, and add a slow release fertilizer. After doing all this, let the soil cure by storing it in a dark and dry place for about 2 weeks then you can use it.
July 1, 2022
5 Advantages of Organic Lawn Care
Have you been thinking about converting your lawn to organic care, but aren’t sure if it’s worth the switch? There are many advantages of organic lawn care that may persuade you!
In this post, we’ll outline some of the key benefits of making the change. Keep reading to learn more.
What is Organic Lawn Care?
Organic lawn care is an approach to lawn care that focuses on using natural methods to achieve a healthy lawn. This includes avoiding the use of synthetic chemicals, such as herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers. Instead, organic lawn care relies on practices such as mowing, aeration, and top dressing to promote a healthy lawn.
While organic methods may take more time and effort than traditional methods, they are often more effective in the long run and provide numerous benefits for both people and the environment. In addition, organic lawn care is often less expensive than traditional methods, making it a great option for budget-conscious homeowners.
5 Advantages of Using Organic Methods for Lawn Care
From using organic lawn fertilizer to trying a mulching mower for your lawn, there are all kinds of benefits of organic lawn care. Here are some of the best.
1. A Healthier Lawn With Stronger Root Development
A healthy lawn is the foundation of a beautiful landscape. Not only does it provide a green space for recreation and relaxation, but it also helps to filter air and water, reduce noise pollution, and stabilize the soil. A key element of a healthy lawn is strong root development.
Unfortunately, many traditional lawn care methods involve the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, which can damage roots and impair their ability to absorb nutrients. Organic lawn care focuses on nurturing the soil and promoting the growth of healthy grass through the use of natural ingredients.
Organic fertilizers are made from natural materials such as plants, animals, and minerals. They often contain a mix of essential nutrients that can help to promote healthy plant growth. In comparison, synthetic fertilizers are usually made from chemical products that may not be as effective at providing the necessary nutrients.
Organic fertilizers are often easier for plants to absorb, which means that more of the nutrients are available for use by the plant. This can lead to healthier plants with strong root systems.
Synthetic fertilizers can sometimes have the opposite effect, causing nutrient deficiencies that can damage plants and stunt their growth. For these reasons, organic fertilizers are generally considered to be better for your plants and their root development.
As a result, organic lawn care can lead to a healthier lawn with stronger root development.
2. Difficult (If Not Impossible) to Overapply
When it comes to lawn care, many homeowners want to do everything they can to ensure a healthy, green lawn. However, they may not be aware of the potential risks associated with using synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.
These products can easily be overused, causing harm to the environment and potentially posing a health risk to people and pets. In contrast, organic lawn care solutions are much more difficult to overapply.
This is because they are derived from natural sources and break down quickly in the environment. As a result, they are much safer for use around the home and garden.
For those looking for a more eco-friendly and sustainable option, organic lawn care solutions are the way to go.
3. Reduces Pollution of the Water and Soil
The use of chemical-based lawn care products can have a negative impact on the environment. These products can pollute the water and soil, and they can also be harmful to wildlife.
Organic lawn care solutions are a much safer option, and they can also be just as effective. By using organic products, you can help to reduce pollution and protect the environment. In addition, organic lawn care solutions are often more affordable than their chemical-based counterparts.
So, not only are you doing your part to protect the planet, but you’re also saving money in the process.
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4. Grass is Less Likely to Suffer from Pests and Diseases
A healthy lawn is the foundation of a beautiful landscape. Unfortunately, many conventional lawn care products contain harmful chemicals that can damage grass and make it more susceptible to pests and diseases.
Fortunately, several organic lawn care solutions can keep your grass healthy and green without the use of harsh chemicals. One of the biggest benefits of organic lawn care is that it is less likely to harm beneficial insects such as ladybugs and bees. In addition, organic products are often made from natural ingredients that are gentle on grass and won’t cause long-term harm.
As a result, organic lawn care is an effective way to maintain a healthy lawn without using harsh chemicals.
5. Saves a Ton of Money
A healthy lawn is the foundation of a beautiful landscape. However, keeping a lawn looking its best can be a costly and time-consuming endeavor. Synthetic fertilizers and pesticides are often used to achieve the desired results, but these products can be expensive and may have harmful side effects.
Fortunately, there are organic lawn care solutions that can be just as effective as traditional methods, but without the same cost or environmental impact.
Organic lawn care begins with choosing the right grass variety for your climate and soil type. Once you have established a healthy lawn, you can then implement organic management practices such as mowing high, watering deeply and infrequently, and using organic fertilizers and pest control methods.
These techniques may take a bit more effort than using synthetic products, but they will save you money in the long run and are better for the environment. With a little effort, you can have a healthy, beautiful lawn that is safe for your family and pets and requires no harmful chemicals.
Why Wait? Go Green With Your Lawn Care for a Greener Lawn Today
Switching to organic lawn care is a great way to improve your home’s environment and help out the planet. Not only will you be doing something good for the earth, but you may also find that organic methods are more effective and save you time in the long run. Have you tried any of these organic lawn care tips?
June 25, 2022
All About Supertunia Vista Bubblegum!
If you are interested in learning all about Supertunia vista bubblegum, we will look at it in this article.
Supertunia Vista Bubblegum is a common plant used by most gardeners in landscaping. In this article, we will look at the history of Supertunia Vista Bubblegum and how to care for it. We will also see the many benefits that this plant has to offer.
What is Supertunia Vista Bubblegum?
The Supertunia Vista Bubblegum is a type of petunia hybrid that is a member of the Solanaceae family. In USDA Zones 10-11, they are grown as perennials, but in cooler areas, they are grown as annuals.
The beautiful flowers of this plant are great for attracting hummingbirds and butterflies. They are a particularly popular plant thanks to the fact they tend to be heat and drought tolerant.
Supertunia Vista Bubblegum – The Appearance and Uses
The leaves of the Supertunia Vista Bubblegum are green. The flowers of this plant are pink in color red-purple veins. They appear in clusters and have a sweet scent.
These flowers bloom from planting to a hard frost and are known for being excellent bloomers. They are easy to care for and their stunning blooms make for an attractive addition to any garden.
It has several different uses which include: gardening, home décor, and landscaping. Supertunia Vista Bubblegum is a herbaceous perennial that grows up to 12-24 inches tall.
The most common use for Supertunia Vista Bubblegum is as a hanging basket or in a planter. This plant can be placed on a sunny window sill or in an artificial light setting. It can also be used as a patio plant or landscape plant.
Supertunia Vista Bubblegum – Propagation
This plant can be propagated by either seed or cuttings. The best time to propagate this plant is during the summer months.
The best way to propagate this plant is by using cuttings. To do this, take a cutting from the top of the petunia plant, be sure to cut a soft, flexible leaf and wrap it in a damp paper towel. Fill a plastic container with a mixture of equal parts peat moss, sand, and plant food.
Dip the end of the stem in rooting hormone and then make a small hole in the soil mixture. Carefully place the end of the stem in the hole and push soil around it to keep it in place.
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Keep the container out of direct sunlight and water the cutting well. After about three weeks, carefully check to see if roots have formed. Once the roots have formed, you can remove it from the container and plant it in a new pot of fresh potting soil.
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Supertunia Vista Bubblegum – Care
This plant can be grown in both sun and part sun. Supertunia Vista Bubblegum thrive when they get six or more hours of sun a day, but they can also grow in four to six hours of partial shade a day.
It is also important to water this plant well. The plant needs medium watering to keep the soil moist. This plant can also benefit from being fertilized on a regular basis.
Fertilize your soil: Your soil will be better off if provided with the right nutrients. Fertilize your Supertunia Vista Bubblegum in the spring by using a slow-release fertilizer such as Osmocote.
Manage diseases: Supertunia Vista Bubblegums are often disease resistant. However, they can be suspectable to root rot, gray mold, late blight, and tobacco mosaic virus. The plant might also get pests such as aphids, flea beetles, slugs, and snails.
To prevent these problems, keep your Supertunia Vista Bubblegum well-watered and look out for any pests or changes in the plant. You should also keep the soil moist, but not soggy.
Repot your plant: The best time to repot this plant is in the spring. This will cause less stress to the plants.
Water thoroughly, but do not overwater and if you notice any sign of disease, re-pot immediately.
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Final Remarks
The Supertunia Vista Bubblegum is a beautiful plant to grow. It will produce stunning pink flowers with red-purple veins.
If you have trouble growing it in your climate, look for it at a plant nursery. It’s quite easy to grow, but do not be surprised if it takes a while for it to mature.
FAQs
Is Supertunia Vista Bubblegum a perennial?
In USDA zones 10-11, the Supertunia Vista Bubblegum is grown as a perennial. However, in cooler areas it is grown as an annual.
What color do bubblegum petunias come in?
The Supertunia Vista Bubblegum is noted for its signature pink flowers with red-purple veins. However, petunias can come in almost all colors except brown and black.
How big do Supertunias get?
The Supertunia Vista Bubblegum can grow to be 12-24 inches tall. They are a particularly great size for growing in hanging baskets and flower pots.
How long do Supertunias last?
How long a Supertunia plant last depends on if it is grown as a perennial or annual. A Perennial will regrow every spring, whereas an annual will live for just one growing season, then die off.
June 6, 2022
Get To Know Some Of The Best Worms For Vegetable Garden
Many types of worms are great soil amenders so adding them to our gardens is very beneficial. But which of these various types of worms is one of the best for our vegetable gardens? Best worms for vegetable garden will be discussed in this article.
If you have a farm that you grow vegetables on, then you should know that come certain worms can help to boost your soil quality. Below the surface of the soil inhabits an ecosystem with life that include worms. So, these worms provide some health benefits to our garden soil.
Below the surface of your soil, these beneficial worms are adding great nutrients and even aerating your soil. But what types of worms are great for our vegetable gardens? Let’s find out.
Best Worms For Vegetable Gardens
So, what are the best worms for vegetable gardens? Below we have listed some of the best worms for your vegetable gardens:
1.    Earthworms
When it comes to the best worms for vegetable gardens, we can put earthworms as one of the best. Usually, earthworms are naturally in our soil and they tend to be down below the ground. We may not even know that these worms are down below our soil.
Earthworms help the soil by fertilizing the soil with their excrete and they also help aerate our soil. Once you’ve confirmed the presence of earthworms in your soil, that’s an indication that your soil has good organic matter.
Additionally, worms help digest any organic matter that you add to your soil system. They do this by assisting in the decomposition of the organic matter added by their feeding activities.
2.    Nightcrawlers (Lumbricus Terrestris)
Nightcrawler worms are also great to be used for vegetable gardens. These types of worms are just like earthworms because they also help breakdown organic matter thereby making these nutrients available to your plants. Nightcrawler worms also help aerate the soil by burrowing into the soil.
3.    Red Wigglers (Eisebia Foetida) – Best Worms For Vegetable Garden
Red wiggler is another good worm that can be added to your vegetable garden. However, it is best to add red wiggler worms to raised bed as this will help keep them contained.
Unlike other worms species such as earthworm and nightcrawler that tend to burrow into the ground, red wigglers don’t burrow. Rather, these worms often remain in the upper layer of the topsoil, meaning they are surface dwellers. They can tolerate higher temperatures.
Red wigglers breathe via their skin and they need to remain moist. So, ensure you don’t let these worms dry out. You can help with moisture by adding a layer of mulch so the soil can remain moist. Do this once you’ve released red wigglers into your vegetable garden.
These worms are pretty efficient in decomposing scraps from your vegetables in your compost pile or worm bin and their droppings. Their urine is very useful for your plants and your garden.
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Should Red Worms Be Introduced Into Our Garden?
Earthworms are natural dwellers that you can find sitting down below your soil. However, red wigglers may not be found naturally in your garden. You may need to introduce red wigglers from outside source.
But introducing red wiggler worms into your garden may not be the best option. Red wigglers are active critters that tend to move so they can move away from your soil area.
If you want to get good results, you will need to keep these worms contained. Setting them up in a raised bed with a huge amount of mulch and keeping them in the vermicompost bin is a good plan. Alternatively, if you have a manure pile, then you can use them on the pile.
Is It Possible For Earthworms And Red Worms To Live Together?
The fact is that red worm and earthworm lifestyle is totally different. Hence, it’s hard for them to compete with resources.
Red wigglers don’t burrow into the soil as earthworms do. So, introducing red wigglers in the topmost part of your soil can probably get them eaten by birds. They can even move away from your garden or garden bed.
So, because of the differences in how earthworms and red worms live, not all situations or environments are suitable for them.
Earthworms, for instance, tend to burrow deep into the soil and they like a cool environment but they can’t tolerate heat. However, red worms are surface dwellers that can tolerate heat.
Also, earthworms like a huge compost bin so that they can have the chance to burrow deep down. For red worms, on the other hand, you should use them with vermicompost bin or use them on a manure pile.
So, the ideal thing is to allow earthworm remain in their base down below as they assist in processing the waste and aerating the soil. Then red worms can remain on the top soil as they also help process waste.
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What Are The Benefits Of Adding Worms To Garden?
Worms such as earthworms, nightcrawlers, and the like can be of great help to our garden. Usually, we may not even be aware they are doing their good work.
- Beneficial worms help digest all organic matter that enters our soil system. The worm’s activities help degrade organic matters.
- Worms help by making all nutrients available to the plants. They do this by pre-digesting organic matter.
- Worms such as earthworms and nightcrawlers dig deeper into the soil thereby aerating the soil.
Conclusion On Best Worms For Vegetable Garden
Earthworms, nightcrawlers, red worms, and the likes can be very helpful to our gardens, especially vegetable gardens. Best worms for vegetable gardens have been discussed in this post. So, you can help boost the production of your vegetable garden by introducing these beneficial worms when necessary.
FAQ’s
What kind of worms are best for vegetable garden?
The kind of worms that are great for your vegetable garden includes earthworms, nightcrawler, and red worms. Earthworms and nightcrawlers dwell deep down in the soil. Then red worms usually prefer the surface of the soil.
Are worms good for gardens?
Yes, some species of worms are great for our gardens. Worms such as earthworms help improve the fertilization of the soil as well as aerate the soil.
Should I put worms in my garden?
Although beneficial worms such as earthworms are naturally present in our soil, you should only add them to your garden when it is necessary.
May 31, 2022
Can You Grow A Bedroom Snake Plant?
Is it possible to grow a bedroom snake plant meaning it will always be in your bedroom and not any other part of your home?
Snake plants are easy to grow both indoors and outdoors. When grown indoors, they can be kept in any part of the house – living room, bedroom patio, bathroom, etc.
About Snake Plant
The snake plant is one of the easiest houseplants to grow because of its versatility. It does well in any type of lighting and it only needs to be watered when the soil drys out.
When grown outdoors, it does well in bright indirect light. It can also be planted in containers. It’s very easy to maintain and will grow quickly.
It also makes a good gift for anyone who loves snake plants. The leaves are generally dark green with green-banded leaves and with a yellow border. They are a great size for growing indoors as they can grow anywhere from six inches to eight feet.
The common or garden snake plant is also known as mother-in-law’s tongue because of the shape of its leaves. It is native to tropical Western Africa.
It has become one of the most popular houseplants because of its easy care and fast growth. Snake plants can be grown in a sunny location in any type of lighting. It does best in sandy well-drained soil.
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Bedroom Snake Plant Growing Conditions
Snake plants growing in the bedroom require proper growing conditions that include:
A cool and humid room
Snake plants grow best in temperatures between 65 to 85 degrees Farenheit. The ideal humidity level is between 30 to 50 percent. A humidifier can help to maintain moisture in very dry conditions.
Soil
Snake plants can grow in a loose, well-drained potting mix and they go well with sandy soils. The proper growing environment for your bedroom snake plant is a large, well-lit room with air circulation.
Light
Snake plants do well in bright, indirect light indoors. They can grow in many different lighting conditions including full sun, partial sun, and shade. However, be careful placing them directly under a window because the heat may damage the plant.
Watering
Watering can be a problem for snake plants. Too much water can cause problems for snake plants. They only need to be watered when the soil is dried out.
Pruning
Snake plants are hardy plants and will need to be pruned now and then. Simply prune the lower old leaves that are dead and leave the newer ones, which means they don’t need to be pruned. Pruning can cause damage if not properly done.
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Care And Maintenance For A Bedroom Snake Plant
It is important to keep your snake plant healthy and happy by following these maintenance tips:
Tip 1: Remove dead leaves as they appear
Dead leaves stagnate the growth of your plant so remove them as often as they appear.
Tip 2: Water your snake plant occasionally
Water your snake plant when the soil is dry. They do not need to be watered frequently.
Tip 3: Keep your snake plant in bright light
Your snake plant will grow best if it has bright, indirect light.
Tip 4: Repot your snake plant every two years
It is recommended that your snake plant be repotted every two years as the soil may dry out and the roots may become too cramped for the plant to grow.
Tip 5: Keep the leaves clean and free from debris
Clean your snake plant regularly with a soft brush or a damp cloth. Remove any dead leaves or debris that accumulate.
Tip 6: Fertilize your snake plant
Though snake plants don’t need to be fertilized, it can be beneficial. Fertilize with a mild cactus fertilizer during the growing season and do not fertilize in winter.
Tip 7: Check for insects
If you see any signs of disease or insect infestation, consult your local gardening expert.
Tip 8: Protect from frost
Keep your snake plant indoors and away from cold drafts during winter.
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Final Words – Bedroom Snake Plant
The snake plant is one of the easiest to grow and more so in your bedroom. It does not need a lot of attention and will reward you with its beautiful leaves.
It is a great plant to grow indoors and it is beginner friendly since it does not need much maintenance. The plant can also be easily propagated through seeds or cuttings, which makes it an affordable option for beginning gardeners.
FAQs
Can snake plant be kept in the bedroom?
Yes, snake plants can grow in the bedroom as long as you provide enough light.
What is the best way to propagate snake plants?
Snake plants can be propagated by dividing the roots or by leaf cuttings.
Do snake plants help you sleep?
Snake plants are a good source of oxygen which can help you sleep better.
Do plants steal your oxygen at night?
Snake plants do not steal your oxygen at night but they do produce oxygen. You can sleep as long as you want with the snake plant. They produce oxygen that helps you sleep.
Where should you place a snake plant?
Snake plant can be placed both indoors and outdoors and continue thriving. Indoors it does best in an area with bright indirect light.
May 29, 2022
Is a Mushroom a Producer or What Can It Be Called?
Is a mushroom a producer or a decomposer? What class would you classify mushrooms especially if you want to start growing them?
Have you ever grown mushrooms? Mushrooms are fungi and they have a very unique appearance.
Fungi can be single-celled or very complex multicellular organisms that often grow on dead organic matter, such as wood, plant material, and decaying matter. There are millions of species of fungus, including many edible ones.
Is a Mushroom a Producer?
Fungi can be saprobic, parasitic, or mutualistic. Saprobes eat organic material and are decomposers. Decomposers play an essential part in the survival of the ecosystem.
Mushrooms are decomposers and they only eat dead organisms. They break down the nutrients in the dead
organisms they consume, then return them to the food web. Mushrooms will eat dead producers or
consumers.
Defining a producer and decomposer:
Is a mushroom a producer? A producer is an organism that produces food for itself and other organisms. Producers, which are plants, use energy and simple inorganic molecules to create organic compounds.
In the case of mushrooms, they are decomposers. Mushrooms break down dead plants and animals and then release simple inorganic molecules back into the environment.
The decomposers are those organisms that eat dead organic matter, such as insects, to get its energy. For example, earthworms eat the soil and convert the organic matter to new soil for plants to grow in. So, the earthworm is a decomposer and not a producer.
Growing Mushrooms
Growing mushrooms is not for the fainthearted. If you have never grown mushrooms before, it is important to start with compost and a tray. The more you grow, the more you will learn about the various species.
For beginners, we recommend starting with the most common species of mushroom: the shiitake. The shiitake is easy to grow, and it’s a good beginner’s mushroom because they are quite forgiving.
We also recommend growing oyster mushrooms. Oyster mushrooms are delicious when they are young, but they can grow to be very large. If you like oyster mushrooms, you will be pleased with the variety of sizes and flavors available in your garden.
For growing mushrooms you will need:
- For best results, use a 14×16-inch tray about six inches deep.
- Mushroom compost material.
- A spade or garden fork.
- A mushroom spawn bag. The most common mushroom spawn bags are made from polypropylene. The advantage of using a mushroom spawn bag is that it keeps your mushrooms from getting waterlogged.
- Heating pad.
- Potting soil.
- Spray bottle.
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Step-by-step directions:
Step 1. Preparing the mushroom tray
Use a 14×16-inch tray about six inches deep. The tray should resemble seed flats. Fill your trays with mushroom compost material and then sprinkle spawn on top.
Step 2. Growing the mushrooms
For the first three weeks, use a heating pad to keep the soil temperature at 70 degrees Farenheit. Once white, rootlike growths called mycelium appear lower the temperature to 55 to 60 degrees Farenheit. Cover the mycelium with about an inch of potting soil.
Be sure to always keep your soil moist during the growing period. Also, be sure to keep your growing tray out of direct sunlight.
Step 3. Harvesting the mushrooms
After three to four weeks, the mushrooms will be ready to harvest. You know that they are ready to harvest when the caps open fully and separate from the stems.
Use a sharp knife to carefully cut the mushroom at the stem, do not pull it out. Wrap the mushrooms in paper towels then place them in open plastic bags or paper bags and keep them in the fridge. You can now use the mushrooms in recipes or freeze them for later use.
In Conclusion – Is A Mushroom A Producer?
So is a mushroom a producer or a decomposer? As we have seen in the above article, a mushroom is a decomposer and not a producer.
Read more about Best Oyster Mushroom Substrate.
FAQs
What is a mushroom classified as?
A mushroom is a fungus that forms fruiting bodies and spores. Fruiting bodies are the reproductive structures of the mushroom.
The most common form is a spore-producing structure called a cap. Caps can be single or multiple and can be attached to the substrate or free-standing.
A spore-producing structure called a stalk grows from the base of the cap. Mushroom stalks can also be free-standing or attached to the substrate.
Does mushroom belong to Basidiomycetes?
Yes. Mushrooms are basidiomycetes which are a diverse and abundant group of fungi. They comprise of around 1/3 of all known fungal species.
Why is a mushroom not a plant?
Plants are the dominant life forms on Earth. Plants have a root system, photosynthetic leaves, and reproductive structures. Mushrooms are not plants. They do not have roots, they do not produce chlorophyll, and they do not photosynthesize. Mushrooms are fungi that form fruiting bodies and spores.
Are all Autotrophs producers?
An autotroph is a type of organism that can produce its own food using inorganic substances. So, autotrphos are producers.
May 7, 2022
The Ideal Blueberry Soil PH Requirement
It is necessary to maintain an ideal pH for the blueberry soil so the plant can flourish. Blueberry soil pH can range from 4.2 to 5.5 so this implies that they need acidic soil to thrive and yield fruits.
The pH of the soil is one of the most important things to put in place when planting blueberries. For you to properly plan your blueberry planting, you need to know the status of your soil and do the appropriate amendments necessary for your plant to flourish.
The information we will be provided in this article will outline more about blueberry soil requirements.
Blueberry Soil PH: The Ideal PH Requirement
So, the correct pH level you should provide for the soil for growing your blueberry is between 4.2 to 5.5 and this shows that acidic soil is the best pH for the plant.
This pH range for blueberry is pretty unique given the fact that most vegetables and fruit plants thrive well in a soil pH range between 6.5 to 7.5.
But when it comes to blueberry plants, if you want to follow the usual pH range for most fruits and vegetables (which is around 6.5 to 7.5), the plant’s growth can slow down, show yellowish leaves, and even produce only a few fruits or no fruit at all. This is why you need to test your soil and lower the pH when necessary.
To reduce the pH of your soil, you can simply amend it by adding sulfur to the soil. This sulfur can be in form of elemental sulfur, sphagnum peat moss, or you can simply use a widely available sulfur amendment gotten from your local garden stores.
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How You Can Test The Soil To Determine Soil PH
When you plan to grow blueberry, it is very important to determine the status of your soil pH. Once you’re able to determine the soil pH, you can know the right amendments to do. The appropriate pH status required to grow blueberry ranges from 4.2 to 5.5
You can determine the soil pH by simply obtaining some soil samples in the area of the plant site you will be planting your blueberries and submit this sample to a lab.
Now, once you’ve identified the status of your soil, you can now decide on the appropriate soil amendments for your soil. If the soil is high in pH, this means you should amend the soil by lowering the pH and if the soil level pH is low, you can leave it but make sure the level is between 4 to 5 pH levels.
Read more about Growing The Pink Spider Lily From Seed
Way Of Amending Soil PH To Suit Blueberry
So, below are some great ways you can amend the soil pH:
1.    Sulfur – Blueberry Soil PH
Sulfur should be applied to the planting site. But if you would be making use of sulfur to amend your soil to plant blueberry, it is recommended to amend your soil pH the fall before you plant. It is suggested you do this because it can take several months for the pH to be amended after sulfur application.
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2.    Sphagnum Peat Moss – Blueberry Soil PH
Sphagnum peat moss is also great to be used to amend the soil. This is particularly if your soil has not been amended yet and you wish to plant your blueberries this spring. So, the addition of an acidic growing medium such as sphagnum peat moss can be added to the planting site to help amend the soil.
This method will even be more ideal if the originally the soil pH is around 5.5 to 7.0. So, just add about 4 to 6 inches of sphagnum peat moss to the upper layer of about 6 to 8 inches of the soil.
We recommend you go further by amending the whole planting site for your blueberries. This is because the roots of blueberries are inclined to expand and outwards. Hence, it is better to amend a soil area of about 2 to 3 feet wide just to ensure the roots of the blueberries plant have access to acidic soil.
3.    Fertilize With An Acidic Fertilizer – Blueberry Soil PH
Blueberry soil pH planting site can as well be amended using acidic fertilizer. Some of these acidic fertilizers include ammonium sulfate, ammonium nitrate, or sulfur-coated urea.
Guidelines For Planning Out A Blueberry Planting Site
Let’s further look into some guidelines to put you through planning out a blueberry planting site:
1. You should begin soil amendments by planning ahead because the soil can need several months to adjust once it has been amended. If possible, you can amend the soil in the fall before you plant
2. At your planting site, you need to plant blueberries 5 feet apart. It may seem like this distance looks far, but the plant is capable of growing out and filling the space. Just make sure you don’t plant too close because it can create competition amongst the plants and it can even increase the chances of insect and disease damage.
3. Make sure the blueberry variety you’re purchasing is from a reliable or reputable store.
4. Preferably, don’t plant against a wall because the wall may generate extra heat that can cause damage to the leaves of the plant.
5. You can expect 6 to 8 pounds of fruits each year for each plant and begin 3 to 4 years after planting.
Final Note On Blueberry Soil PH
Blueberry soil pH needs to be in the right range which is around 4.2 to 5.5 because this pH range will ensure blueberry plant thrives well and produce.
Soil testing should be the first factor to consider when planning your garden site for your blueberry and once you’ve determined the pH level, just amend the soil accordingly to suit blueberry growth.
FAQ’s
How do I make my soil acidic for blueberries?
You can make your soil acidic for blueberries planting by simply adding sulfur to your soil, amending it with sphagnum peat moss, or fertilize the soil using acidic fertilizer.
Should you put lime on blueberry bushes?
The addition of lime to soil usually neutralizes the soil pH to a pH range of around 6.0 to 7.0. However, blueberry needs an acidic soil of lower pH (which is between 4.2 to 5.5) to flourish. So, lime may not be so great in helping blueberry plant amend their soil to the right pH range.
Can I put coffee grounds on my blueberry plants?
You may decide to put coffee grounds on your blueberry plants because they are highly acidic. However, if your soil is already high in nitrogen and you apply coffee ground, it may stunt the growth of flowers and fruit production.
How do you add sulfur to blueberries?
Sulfur helps amend blueberry soil by lowering their pH, so if you want to reduce the pH range of sandy soil, you need to add ¾ pound of sulfur per 100 square feet of the garden planting site.
May 5, 2022