Grower Today

Category: Soils & Plant Nutrients

  • How To Make Homemade Compost Catalyst

    How To Make Homemade Compost Catalyst

    Learning how to make a homemade compost catalyst enables you to make your pile efficiently available saving you valuable time.

    Compost comes from decomposing leaves, papers, eggshells, coffee grounds, and soil. It is rich in nitrogen and carbon which are beneficial to the soil. A new compost usually takes between 1 to 2 months to fully mature.

    New compost can benefit from a homemade compost catalyst to help speed up the process. By combining a few basic ingredients found at home your compost pile will be cooking up the nutrients within no time.

    How To Make Homemade Compost Catalyst

    By learning how to speed up composting and the key factors involved, you can make your own compost within a shorter period of time. A compost pile must be at least 4’x4’x4′ to generate and keep sufficient heat. Too large piles will be too big to compress which limits the oxygen flow.

    Things You Will Need

    • 6 ounces of beer
    • 12 ounces of soda
    • ½ cup of ammonia
    • 2 gallons of warm water
    • 5-gallon bucket
    • Shovel for mixing
    • Garden sprayer

    The Step by Step Method

    • Place the 5-gallon bucket on sturdy ground. Choose a bucket that has not had any chemicals or any harmful contents. Clean it well before use.
    • Pour 6 ounce of beer into the bucket – don’t drink any. Beer contains yeast that helps speed up the decomposition process in the compost. You can replace the beer by adding active dry yeast.
    • Add ½ cup of ammonia to the beer and watch the reaction. Ammonia provides a critical shot of nitrogen. It also helps speed up the breakdown of the compost material.
    • Pour 2 gallons of warm water into the mixture and mix together.
    • Add the 12 ounces of regular soda to the mixture. Soda contains extra sugars that help microbes to feed during the decomposition process.
    • Pour the mixture into a garden sprayer.
    • Spray this mixture into the compost pile. Using your shovel, mix the pile well to make sure the homemade compost catalyst gets to all corners.
    • When the heat reaches the first peak temperature, it will kill the yeast, so apply the mix once again to your compost.

    Homemade Compost Catalyst - Step by Step Method

    Pros and Cons of Using Homemade Compost Catalyst

    Not everyone finds the need to make compost in 14 days. To some, it may seem too much work but to others, it’s interesting to make their compost process work faster by using a compost accelerator. Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of accelerated decomposing.

    Advantages

    • You get ready compost in a few weeks – unlike the long process of allowing the pile to compose naturally.
    • You get higher nutrient content due to less leaching in nutrients. The shorter the decomposing period, the more nutrients you preserve.
    • You get fewer potential weeds and weed seeds – the quickened process that does not allow weeds to form.

    Disadvantages

    • You will use more effort. Unlike allowing nature to take its course, you will need to put in the effort to mix the compost.
    • You will need more materials. You will need to invest in a little more than just the compost pile.

    Pros and Cons of Using Homemade Compost Catalyst

    Conclusion

    Life is a journey! And sometimes it takes twists and turns that we never expected. Sometimes it may end up taking us where we did not want to go. If you had the key to drive your own life the way you want, would you take it? Same here, you have the chance to cook up your compost pile within the shortest time possible and still get amazing results. Why not use it?

    FAQ

    What Is A Compost Accelerator?

    A compost accelerator is a booster added to the compost pile to get speedy results for complete composting. It is also known as compost activators or compost starters. 

    Compost accelerators comprise bacteria and fungi which will help kick start nature’s operation for the decomposition process.

    How Long Does It Take For Compost To Break Down?

    How long compost takes to break down is about 4 weeks to 12 months to break down. However, if you make use of a tumbler, your compost can break down quicker in a period of 3 weeks to 3 months. 

    You should also take note that the rate at which compost will break down will depend on some factors. They are:

    • Size: the size of your materials will determine if decomposition will be fast or slow. The smaller size breaks down more speedily than the bigger size. Thus, to enhance your compost to break down rapidly, chop and shred the materials into smaller sizes. Also, if you want to add things like food scraps, grass, dry leaves, etc to your compost, do so by cutting them into smaller bits. 
    • Turning pile compost: when you turn your pile compost often encourages aeration. It will also enhance the movement of bigger bits towards the center where they are able to decompose faster. The use of a compost tumbler enhances this procedure. 
    • Heat: heat will help speed up the decomposition process in the compost pile. 

    Does A Compost Pile Need Sun?

    If you want to speed up the decomposing process of your compost pile, placing them in the sun will do the job. The compost pile will need the sun to increase the temperature making the fungi and bacteria work faster. However, watering your compost pile once in a while under the full sun might be needed so it does not dry out. 

    How Do You Know When Your Compost Is Ready?

    If you are wondering how do you know when your compost is ready, these characteristics should help you out:

    • Color: the color of your ready compost pile should be a dark rich color. 
    • Texture: when your compost is ready, the texture should be smooth and friable. Most of the things you added to your compost should not be seen, they should all be smooth. There should also not be too much moisture in it.
    • Scent: the smell of your readymade compost should be sweet like earth. There shouldn’t be any indication of sourness. If your compost smells sour, it’s a sign of an incomplete decomposition process meaning it needs more time to decompose. 

    What Will Happen If You Left The Compost Too Long?

    You might be wondering what will happen if you left the compost too long? Well, it’s still safe to make use of after years only if the moisture levels are well managed and covered in a dry place. 

    However, little by little, the compost can begin to break down. The nutrients will start to leach away and the compost pile might begin to show signs of rotting. The fungus can also begin to pollute or contaminate the compost pile. 

  • Can You Compost Weeds? The Challenge Of Successfully Composting Them

    Can You Compost Weeds? The Challenge Of Successfully Composting Them

    Have you been warned of the risks of composting weeds and you don’t know if you can compost them? Weeding is a dreaded garden activity because it might be hard to get rid of these longlasting and resistant plants. Weeds are plants hard to pull, they give plenty of seeds and multiply everywhere. Sometimes weeds climb on other plants, and in some cases, they can even smother others to death by weight or in a parasitic relation. 

    We find ourselves weeding through the garden every other day, but weeds keep popping up. We then find ourselves facing a new problem: what to do with the weeds we just pulled? Can you compost weeds?  

    Can You Compost Weeds?

    Weeds never die is a common saying, but what are weeds and why do they “never die”? 

    Can You Compost Weeds

    Many say weeds shouldn’t be thrown into the compost bin. Weeds have very resistant seeds, that can remain alive even above 65°C (or 149°F). Most composts get to only 45-50°C (°F), because of many factors, such as:

    • Small size, warm composts need to be at least 1m3 (27 ft³). 
    • Not enough green organic matter was mixed in, in relation to the brown organic matter added. You can fix this lack of Nitrogen in the mix by adding more of the greens or even add some urine (with a concentrated and readily available nitrogen). 
    • Not turning it over often enough. How often do you turn it over? Once a week or once a month?
    • The climate where you keep the compost is too dry, too wet, or too cold. This can set back the decomposing process in your compost 

    Composting of Weeds, how to succeed?

    In order to succeed in composting weeds, the best thing to do is to observe the most common weeds in the location and learn how they look like in different life stages. Weed out as soon as you spot a weed in your garden, the sooner the better. 

    Once it flowers, the plant will start producing seeds very quickly, and decomposing the weeds in the compost may not be enough to inactivate the seeds. When you fertilize your soil with the uncomposted weed’s seeds, they will eventually find the conditions to germinate, making it a never-ending process of weeding. 

    Compost usually warms up, but in order to break the weeds seeds cycle, we must guarantee the heat to persist (above 65°C/ 149°F) during at least fifteen days in a row. 

    The Quick Guide To Composting Weeds Successfully

    • Make sure you build a big compost pile to ensure its proper warming process. The size of the compost container should be double the volume of the final compost you want to obtain. You may find very detailed instructions on how to build six different types of compost bins or containers and their optimum sizes in this article. 
    • Cut organic matter into small pieces when possible.
    • Add enough brown organic matter to balance recently trimmed weeds (green matter). One bucket of green organic matter and one bucket of brown organic matter -or a bit more- is a good volume relation (1:1).
    • Keep the moisture content between 40 to 60%. The compost mix should feel moist to the touch.
    • Add chopped up weeds that have not yet flowered.
    • Turn the compost over frequently (at least twice a month).
    • Most importantly: compost weeds before they get to flower. 

     

    FAQs

    Can weeds go in a compost bin?

    Weeds are an organic material that will break down over time. There are several ways you can use weeds in your composting process.

    One thing you can do is make a mulch from them, which will add nitrogen and organic matter to your soil. This will help keep weeds down while improving your soil.

    You can also add the weeds to your compost bin. This will keep them out of your yard, where they can cause problems. If you are going to add them to your compost bin, be sure to let the weeds sit there for at least two weeks before adding them to the compost pile. This will give them time to decompose. You may not be able to use your compost bin as often if you have a lot of weeds in it. A lot of weeds can be very hard on a compost bin, causing it to become hot and smelly.

    If you have a lot of weeds, you may want to try using a worm bin instead. Worms are much better at breaking down the weed seeds than a compost bin is.

    Why do people not compost weeds?

    The most common reason people avoid composting weeds is that they’re afraid of creating a toxic stew. They worry about mixing plant material and having to filter out the weed seeds. The truth is, you don’t have to worry about this. There are two ways to compost weeds: first, you can let the weeds decompose in place, and second, you can remove them and compost them separately.

    If you choose the first option, simply leave the weeds where they are, because they’ll naturally break down into humus in time. If you choose the second option, you can remove weeds from your compost pile, then separate them from the rest of the compost with a screen or a metal strainer. If you do this, you’ll need to add a little extra water and oxygen to the pile, but it’s not that difficult. In either case, you don’t have to worry about weed seeds.

    They’re sterile when they germinate, so you can just put the compost directly into the soil. In fact, many gardeners use a single-composting system for all their organic matter. If you’re looking for a simple solution, then this is a great way to go. You’ll save time by doing it all at once, and you won’t have to worry about keeping separate piles of food waste, yard trimmings, and manure.

    Why is it a good idea to compost weeds?

    Composting weeds is a great way to help our environment. It will help to keep your garden free from nasty weeds, it will also help the environment by helping to remove excess nitrogen from your garden and helping to reduce the amount of water needed for the garden. Composting weeds can help with the process of recycling, weeding, pest control and fertilizing. Composting weeds will help you to save money by not having to buy weed killers.

    Composting weeds will help you to grow more plants, it will also help you to grow healthier plants and you will notice that your garden will be healthier than ever before. Composting weeds will help to increase the amount of nutrients in the soil and it will help to make sure that your soil is rich and healthy for your plants. You can find the best place to compost weeds at your local gardening store. They have different methods for composting weeds and they also have all the right tools to help you get started.

    Why should you not compost weeds?

    – Do not compost your weeds if you have a dog or cat in your house because the weed seeds could get into their food and they could get sick.

    – Do not compost your weeds if you have a pet because the weed seeds could get into their food and they could get sick.

    – Do not compost your weeds if you have any allergies to weeds or other plant material because the weed seeds could get into their food and they could get sick.

    – Do not compost your weeds if you live in an area that gets a lot of rain because the weed seeds could get into their food and they could get sick.

    Why Are Weeds Good For The Garden? 

    The weeds of your garden have functions in the ecosystems.

    1. Weeds are plants designed by Nature to regenerate soils. They like to grow especially in borders, eroded or poor soils, and besides trails and roads. 

    2. Weeds are very resilient plants that prepare the soils for other more nutrient demanding plants in ecological succession. 

    3. When soil is left bare or is turned around during tilling, seeds of weeds germinate easily and start their life mission: to hold the soil and nurture it. 

    4. Weeds tend to be highly medicinal, nutritious, or can be extremely toxic. 

    5. Many weeds have superpowers to absorb high quantities of certain minerals from the soil. Some of them are even used to regenerate heavily polluted soils (from contaminants such as oil, gasoline, and heavy metals).

    6. Many animals develop a special relation to these kinds of plants and seek them for specific therapeutic results, including us humans.

    7. They have accompanied humans during the ages and have a history of being related to witches, wizards, healers, and shamans all around the world. 

    Why Are Weeds Good For The Garden

    If you have more tips, leave in the comments what has worked for you when you compost weeds from your garden.

    Go often to the house of thy friend,  for weeds soon choke up the unused path.

    – Scandinavian proverb

  • Where To Buy Sulfur Powder And How To Add It To The Soil

    Where To Buy Sulfur Powder And How To Add It To The Soil

    Every organic farmer who wants to improve their soil pH and add natural nutrients ought to know where to buy sulfur powder and how to add it to the soil.

    Sulfur powder is a natural pure element that comes as a yellow powder. It is one of the world’s oldest remedies for human ailments and for improving the soil for farming.

    Where to Buy Sulfur Powder?

    Most farmers wonder where to buy sulfur powder. It is common to find it in the most popular online markets by verified sellers.  Like other online shops, Amazon is one of the best stockists in the world.

    Sulfur Plant Fungicide, Organically Controls Rust, Leaf Spot and Powdery Mildew
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    12/19/2025 12:05 pm GMT

    Where Does Sulfur Powder Come From?

    It originates from volcanic emissions and ancient mined sulfur around volcanoes. Today, sulfur comes from a by-product of crude oil and gas processing. It is an essential element containing all living cells.

    How to Add It to the Soil

    This powder has many benefits to the soil; all farmers need to learn how to add it. Application for this powder depends on the type of soil you are working with. Below is a table showing how the sulfur powder should be distributed to lower the soil pH to 4.5.

    Sulfur powder needs to lower the pH of the soil (lb/acre)

     

    SOIL TYPE

    CURRENT pHCLAYLOAMSAND
    5.0175530800
    5.535010301600
    6.053015402300
    6.566020203030
    7.084025603800

    Advantages of Adding Sulfur Powder to The Soil

    This fantastic powder has many health benefits for the soil. They include:

    • Lowering the soil pH value.  The best soil pH ranges from 5.8 to 7.0. Some soils, especially in the limestone regions, may have a high pH of about 8.0 with 50% lime. Such soils lack essential minerals like iron, manganese, and zinc. The leafy plants growing in such soils may become yellow due to deficiencies. Adding sulfur powder to the soil solves these problems.
    • It is a great fungicide.  This powder controls fungus and mildew on leaves. It is best known to prevent mold, especially when applied before the fungus settles on the leaves. It works best when used on dry leaves.
    • It is best used as a pesticide. Sulfur powder is one of the oldest, best-known pesticides. It is best used in vegetables and fruits. It controls thrips and spider mites. One has to wear a protective mask when applying this powder.
    Advantages of Adding Sulfur Powder to the Soil

    • It offers essential nutrients to plants. Sulfur carries essential plant nutrients that include, Potassium, Nitrogen, and Phosphorous.  It also improves the soil and assists in fixing phosphorous and nitrogen.
    • Used as a snake repellant – Snakes do not like the smell of sulfur powder. It is one of the best repellants for your outdoor surroundings without killing them.
    • Used as an insect repellant on pets. Rubbing sulfur powder on pets eliminates chiggers, ticks, and other pests.

    Learn more about organic fertilizers like Kelp Meal.

    Where Do Plants Get Sulfur From?

    Sulfur is an essential micronutrient for the growth and development of plants. It is mostly absorbed by plants as sulfate from the soil. It is then translocated to plastids in the leaves, where it is then assimilated into organic products,

    Sulfur plays a vital role in plant photosynthesis, respiration, and the formation of cell membrane structures.  It originates from rocks and minerals released by water weathering, temperature changes, and chemical reactions. When exposed to air, sulfur combines with oxygen to form sulfate which is the form that is available to plants.

    Sulfur is stored in raw organic material and humus in most soils. Microorganisms in the soil work to decompose this organic matter, and in the process, the organic sulfur is converted to sulfate, the form in which plants can absorb it.

    Does Epsom Salt Add Sulfur to Soil?

    Epsom salt is magnesium sulfate, meaning it contains a form of sulfur.

    It is essential for plants as it helps their seeds germinate, makes the plants grow bushier, and produces more flowers. It can also help to improve chlorophyll production and deter insects and pests such as slugs and voles. Epsom salt may be a great addition to conventional fertilizer as it can supplement vital nutrients.

    The best way to use Epsom salt is to drench the soil with 1 tablespoon of Epsom salt solution for 1 gallon of water. Apply this solution to the soil after seeding to help keep the sulfur levels in the soil up.

    Another way to apply sulfur to the soil through Epsom salts is by sprinkling a cup on a seeded bed. This will significantly benefit your plants.

    Epsom salts also have the added benefit of adding another nutrient to the soil: magnesium. This can give your plants a boost, but it should only be used when there are deficiencies in the soil.

    How Long Does it Take For Sulfur to Lower Soil pH?

    One of the cheapest ways to lower the pH of the soil is to add sulfur. Bacteria in the soil transform sulfur into sulfuric acid, which reduces the soil pH.

    The application rate needs to be reduced by 2 points to about 2000 lb per square acre area.

    Using sulfur to lower soil pH is a slow process so large pH changes are unlikely to happen quickly. It may take up to years to see a noticeable change.

    A pH change may take about 2 to 3 months for a smaller area. Make sure you get the best quality Epsom salts to achieve this. Add sulfur this year to lower the pH for the following year or the next growing season. This will give the sulfur and bacteria in the soil enough time to react and produce their required results.

    When Do You Apply Sulfur to Soil?

    A spring application of sulfur usually works best. It is during this season that you will have the highest activity of bacteria that will transform sulfur to sulphuric acid, which will help lower the pH

    Because this is such a slow process, you may have to repeat the application over the years to get the best results.

    What Should Sulfur Levels Be in Soil?

    The critical limit of sulfur in the soil is approximately 7-15 ppm. Anything below this range may hamper plant growth and production.

    Take Away

    Finding one powder that takes care of so many problems like this one is not common. This one is beyond doubt!

    FAQs

    How do you add sulfur powder to soil?

    Sulfur (S) is an important mineral that’s often added to the soil. You can add it directly, or if you’re working with a large volume of soil, you can add it as a liquid or powder and then mix in the soil.

    You don’t need to add sulfur to the soil, but you can use it as a fertilizer. It is sold as a dry powder for use in garden and flower beds, and you mix it with water and water-soluble fertilizers to create a water-soluble product. It will be available at your local garden center or nursery.

    If you need to add sulfur to your soil, you need to find a source of elemental sulfur, or hydrogen sulfide.

    Sulfur is applied to the soil as a component of a sulfur-based fertilization program. The amount of sulfur applied to soil is determined by the type of soil and climate you are growing in.

    What is sulfur good for?

    Sulfur is a key ingredient of soil. It helps plants to absorb nutrients, and it also improves soil structure. Sulfur is found in many different sources such as soil, compost, gypsum, wood ash, seaweed, sulphate of lime, sulphate of magnesia and gypsum.

    Sulfur is an essential nutrient for plant growth and development. Plants require sulfate for the synthesis of many important compounds, such as amino acids, fatty acids, proteins, nucleic acids, chlorophyll, and vitamins.

    Sulfur is a mineral that can be added to your garden. It will increase the number of healthy plants and decrease the number of sick plants.

    If you are trying to boost your soil’s fertility, adding sulfur to your soil is an important step. Sulfur is a key component of the process that converts atmospheric nitrogen into plant-available nitrogen.

    Where can you buy powdered sulfur?

    Powdered sulfur is sold in chemical supply stores. It’s usually labeled “sulfur”, “sulfate” or “S”. The “powder” part of the label means it’s fine, and not a coarse rock powder. I’ve seen it in a couple of different grades, but I’d suggest the cheapest one that still gets the job done.

    You can use elemental sulfur (sulfuric acid) or sodium sulfate. These are sold in garden centers as “plant food”, or as “plant food pellets” (I have not seen them for sale under any other name). They are very cheap and easy to use.

    How much sulfur should I add to my soil?

    Plants have different needs for sulfur, and you need to test the soil in your garden and add the proper amount. There are different ways to measure sulfur. The most common way is to use the sulfate of potash method. This involves mixing up a little water with the soil.

    Sulfur is found in all soils but its availability is low because most plants cannot use it. Sulfur is also very mobile and can be carried out of the soil by water.

  • A Quick Guide On How To Use Kelp Meal As Fertilizer

    A Quick Guide On How To Use Kelp Meal As Fertilizer

    Do you know what is and how to use kelp meal? Whether you are growing indoors or outdoor plants, the one element you want to see is healthy plants.  With organic farming practices growing more popular, it’s paramount you get acquainted. Organic farming is successful with the use of safe organic fertilizers.

    One such fertilizer is Kelp meal. It contains beneficial nutrients that all plants need. It is one of the safest fertilizers with no additives or harmful compounds. Simply ground seaweed! Let us learn how to use kelp meal as fertilizer on houseplants or foods.

    What is Kelp Meal? 

    Kelp meal comes from dried seaweed. The seaweed is brown in color; a type of marine algae. It is a rich product of the ocean, dried, and then pulverized into a meal product and used as a fertilizer.  

    This organic fertilizer is sustainable.  It enhances healthier plant growth as well as promotes fruit and vegetable yields. It contains plentiful benefits for different varieties of plants.  You can thus adopt it as a staple in your gardening journey.

    What is Kelp Meal

    This seaweed fertilizer comes in three forms:

    What Nutrients Does Kelp Meal Contain? 

    Kelp meal is a proven choice of organic fertilizer. It delivers nature’s excellent supply of the world’s finest nutrients.  

    It contains macronutrients – Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium (N-P-K). They are present in small amounts that are not harmful to the plants. It also gives sufficient vitamins, amino acids, and over sixty traces of micronutrients.  

    It preserves your soil’s microorganisms.  It does not kill worms and other small insects that provide other nutrients to the soil.

    How to use Kelp Meal and Its Application Rate 

    Kelp meal can either work on its own or with other fertilizer blends. It is such a forgiving organic fertilizer to use in your garden because you cannot overdo it. It is only added multiple times in a year. Its nutrients dissolve much slower than other types making it last longer.

    Depending on the size of your garden or style of gardening, you will need to know how much to apply for best results. This is a general guideline to guide you on the application rate:

    • Outdoor vegetable garden beds: Use one to two pounds per a hundred square feet. Mix with the top three inches of the soil for better absorption. Apply it once or twice during long growing cycles.
    • When transplanting seedlings: Use one teaspoon per hole, mix with soil and water.
    • To feed growing plants: Side dress with two teaspoons per plant once or twice per growing season.    
    • House plants: Use one tablespoon per gallon of soil once or twice per year.

     

    FAQs

    How do you mix kelp fertilizer?

    If you want to grow kelp, you can use the product yourself or you can get it premixed with compost and other materials. You can mix your own kelp fertilizer by combining a few ingredients:

    Kelp powder – 1 part Compost – 2 parts Rice hulls – 1 part You will also need to add sand, peat moss and charcoal to the mix.

    If you do not have any of these items on hand, you can use your garden store and they should be able to help you find everything you need. When mixing the kelp fertilizer, you will want to mix the kelp powder in first then add the other ingredients.

    Kelp powder (or kelp meal) is sold as a powder in most nurseries, and it’s generally easy to find at home improvement stores.

    How do I apply kelp to my garden?

    Apply kelp to your garden by sprinkling it in a regular, non-chlorinated garden.

    The kelp will float and settle, and you can easily harvest it when it has settled. You can also add it to your compost pile.

    Kelp contains all of the nutrients that you would expect in a seaweed, and can be used as an organic fertilizer. If you have a garden pond, sprinkle kelp directly on the pond.

    You can buy kelp from any store that sells organic food. Kelp is easy to grow.

    How often should I use seaweed fertilizer?

    Seaweed fertilizers are a great way to provide an extra boost of nutrition to your garden. The best time to apply seaweed fertilizers is after a rain event or when the soil is moist. You can also use them as mulch in your garden beds.

    One teaspoon of seaweed fertilizer equals about 1/2 tablespoon of product. In general, it is a good idea to start out slow and work your way up to the recommended dose.

    Sprinkle the fertilizer on the top of the soil. Follow up with regular watering, and if possible, a good hard rain. In general, the fertilizer will take effect within 10-14 days. However, this varies from one product to another. The fertilizer may also take longer to work if it has been sitting in a container for too long.

     Seaweed fertilizers are available in a wide variety of formulations and sizes. They are usually sold in granular form and are most effective when used in small amounts at the root level. Follow these easy steps to get the best results: Mix the fertilizer into a small amount of water (water will settle at the bottom) in a bucket. Sprinkle the fertilizer in a thin layer over the top of the soil, about 1/2 inch deep. This will provide a consistent dose of nutrients. Water thoroughly and wait for results. If you use an organic fertilizer, you may need to water more often.

    Take Away

    Kelp meal not only contains a surplus of micronutrients, but it’s also affordable giving you value for your money.  With the nutrients absorbing slower than usual, it means a little goes a long way.  Just like drinking your coffee from a coffee cup then switching to a drinking straw! You enjoy every sip for longer! 

    Now you know how to use kelp meal as fertilizer, try it on your plants, and enjoy an organic garden!

  • How Long Does Blood Meal Last In Soil?

    How Long Does Blood Meal Last In Soil?

    One question people want to know is how long does blood meal last in soil. You’ve probably heard about blood meal is beneficial to plants. Perhaps, you’re interested in using it as fertilizer. But maybe, you’re a little bothered by how it’s going to bear positive results.

    It’s one thing to have the nutrients available in the soil. It’s another thing how fast they get released for the plant’s consumption. Fertilizers vary in terms of how long they stay in the soil. Some are slow-released while others are readily available. If you’re interested in blood meal, consider these factors.

    What is Blood Meal for Plants?

    Blood meal is an organic fertilizer that’s made out of dried animal blood coming from slaughterhouses. It has an NPK ratio of 12.5-1.5-0.6. It’s all-natural, a safe choice for sustainable gardeners.

    What is Blood Meal for Plants

    How Long Does Blood Meal Last In Soil?- Factors to Consider

    Blood Meal is a slow-release fertilizer that can last around 2 to 6 weeks in soil. In powder or granular form and in varying sizes, Amazon has a wide variety of options for blood meal products like Jobe’s Organic Blood Meal Soil Amendment. To know how long does blood meal last in soil, we have to consider many factors:

    Decomposition Process

    • Type of Organic Material

    Depending on the materials used, natural fertilizers take time to decompose. Blood meal has a different decomposition length compared to compost, manure, bone meal, or vegetable scraps. They vary in their composition and complexities. 

    • Type of Microbes

    Once applied to the soil, the microbes present will have to feed on blood meal first. They break down complex compounds into consumable forms. This process helps the nutrients become available to the plants. 

    The release of nutrients is dependent on the efficiency of the decomposers. The amount and nature of microbes present is a factor. Fungi, bacteria, earthworms, and other feeding organisms work together to make this happen. 

    Blood Meal for Plants - Type of Microbes

    • Type of Environment

    The efficacy of decomposers is also affected by its environment including temperature, moisture level, soil pH, aeration, and carbon to nitrogen ratio. Providing these ideal conditions will hasten the breaking down process. You may need to do some adjustments before applying the blood meal.

    Application Process

    • Timing

    Apply blood meal 2 weeks before planting. This technique gives enough time for the microbes to make nutrients available in time for planting.  Also, blood meal has a very high nitrogen content that it can burn the plants when mismanaged. The advanced application makes the concentration tolerable.

    Reapply every 2 months to ensure a continuous supply of nutrients especially on the vegetative stage of plants. 

    • Blood Meal Application Rate

    Apply 1 cup per 20 square feet of soil. Excessive application is detrimental. Too much nitrogen causes dehydration because of the salts it leaves behind in the plant, burning it. Other effects include susceptibility to diseases and insects. Flowering and fruit set are also compromised. 

    Final Words

    As a slow-release organic fertilizer, blood meal lasts in the soil approximately from 2 to 6 weeks. Results may take a while to show but it surely does its job. Proper use and management lead to healthier and productive plants.

    FAQ

    What Plants Benefit From Blood Meal?

    The plants that benefit from blood meal are plants that are heavy nitrogen feeders. They include cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, radishes, lettuce, corn, and squash. Cruciferous vegetables such as kale, broccoli, spinach, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts are also included. 

    Basically, nitrogen is one of the most unstable nutrients in the soil; therefore, if your plants are deficient in nitrogen, blood meal application will be a good solution.

    However, some plants should avoid blood meal application. Plants such as legumes already have roots nodules with bacteria that can fix nitrogen from the atmosphere. 

    How Long Does It Take For Blood Meal To Work?

    Blood meal is a quick organic remedy to nitrogen deficiencies in plants. It is always readily available to plants and highly soluble. However, if used inappropriately, especially to young plants, it can burn and injure your plant roots and plant tissues. This is because of the decomposition that takes place in the soil on the addition of blood meal.

    Decomposition will determine how fast blood meal works. The soil bacteria which are responsible for the decomposition and making blood meal available will act by breaking down ammonia. These soil bacteria in addition to warm and damp conditions encourage this fast action. And this fast action may be pretty harmful. 

    Also, doing a soil test to know the amount of nitrogen needed in your soil will be of help. Even better, soil testing can be done with home test kits. 

    Therefore, ensure you follow instructions and do not exceed the recommended quantity given on blood meal labels. 

    Can I Mix Blood Meal With Water?

    If you are wondering if you can mix blood meal with water, then you should know that most blood meals are highly soluble. Therefore you can mix blood meal with water. However, read the instructions on the label to know if should mix blood meal with water. 

    Can You Sprinkle Bone Meal On Top Of Soil?

    You can sprinkle bone meal evenly on top of the soil. Ensure you also mix to incorporate it well into the soil after sprinkling bone meal on top of your soil. When there is dry weather when sprinkling bone meal, water in thoroughly so it can work into the soil. 

    Again, if you wish to apply bone meal fertilizer all through its growing season, make sure you sprinkle uniformly on top of the established areas of the soil. You should as well tenderly work it into the soil and minding the root of the plants as you do this. 

    For applying bone meals on top of established plant soils with containers, sprinkle some bone meal at the beginning of the season. You can then sprinkle again once or twice all through the growing season. This will enhance flowering or encourage fruit ripening as your plants develop. 

    Slow release or fast release of blood meal fertilizer actually depends on soil temperatures. It is a slow-release when the soil temperatures are moderate or low. However, it is fast releasing in warm temperature. Also, the blood meal will be fast-acting in soggy or damp soil. 

    Always have in mind that fast action of blood meal which results in the release of more nitrogen can be harmful to your plants.

  • Overcoming the Challenge of Blossom End Rot

    Overcoming the Challenge of Blossom End Rot

    What is a blossom end rot? Why do we need to look for a solution to this? Does this concern everyone? Blossom end rot will probably denote decay in a flowering plant. You might think that this is just a concern for those green thumbs and lovers of plants, but looking at the bigger picture, most of the fruits that we consume come from flowering plants. 

    Flowers serve as the reproductive organs of plants. Through pollination, double fertilization will take place. Over time, the ovum of the flower will enlarge and become a fruit. It is satisfying for a gardener to see how a plant grows and bears fruit. However, it is a bit disappointing to see dark or brown spots on the fruits that this plant bears. 

    Growing plants is a fulfilling and relaxing activity that a person can do. It is also a source of income for farmers. Blossom end rot can cause loss to those who depend on fruit-bearing plants. It won’t cause death to plants, but it will definitely reduce the harvest of farmers. This will lead to the imbalance of supply and demand in the market that will affect all of us. The question is: how do we overcome this challenge? In this article, we will talk about what causes blossom end rot and the ways we can remedy the problem. Let’s get started. 

    What Causes Blossom End Rot?

    Calcium is an essential alkaline earth metal known to strengthen the bones and teeth of a human being and is commonly obtained through the milk and other dairy products. For plants, calcium aids in various life processes like cellular activities. Calcium safeguards plants from diseases. Calcium strengthens the cell wall that protects other cell organelles responsible for respiration and food production. The quality of fruits is also affected by calcium. 

    Lack of this important element then causes blossom end rot. Blossom end rot is a condition where young fruits start to have yellowish spots. Eventually, these yellow spots will become brownish to black. Calcium deficiency causes the rotting of fruits, decay, and curling of leaves, not to mention the slow growth. Due to erosion, nutrients in the soil, including calcium, are sometimes carried away to different places. There are also instances where the calcium in the soil is enough, but the plants’ roots cannot absorb enough calcium for its uses.

    If there is an insufficiency, we simply add what is lacking to maintain a good and balanced condition. If the soil is calcium deficient, we need to improve its calcium content. If it is a plant that can’t absorb the calcium, we must enhance the environment of the plant for it to function well.

    How Calcium Solution Cures Blossom End Rot?

    Calcium can bind with other elements to form compounds that can be absorbed by plants. There are calcium solutions and calcium-rich fertilizers available in the market. You can buy them online as well and read actual reviews from satisfied customers. Simply spray or apply the product to the plants or the soil to add calcium. If you don’t want to use commercial products as calcium enhancers, you may also use organic materials as organic fertilizers. Either way, it can still help alleviate the condition. With the proper application of fertilizer, enough sunlight and enough water, a plant can grow well. 

    Overcoming the Challenge of Blossom End Rot

    Calcium solutions cannot totally cure the blossom end rot. It can only improve the condition of the soil so that plants will receive enough nutrients. The application of calcium solution also depends on the species of plant, the climate, the weather, as well as the humidity. 

    What are the Other Ways to Resolve Blossom End Rot?

    Preventing blossom end rot is better than looking for a cure to it. As the old adage says, ‘prevention is always better than cure’. Providing the basic needs of plants will make them grow well. Receiving proper sunlight, regular watering according to the need, and proper nutrition will yield healthy plants. It takes time and effort, but in the end, it’s going to be worth it.

    As you may have noticed, blossom end rot is common among tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and squash. If yellow and brown spots already appear in some of the fruits, these can be removed to avoid spreading it to other plants and fruits. Those fruits can still be consumed by means of removing the rotten portions although this is not highly recommended a move. 

    If blossom end rot occurs regularly and cannot be aided by calcium solution, the soil should be checked and tested. There are other elements like potassium, nitrogen, and hydrogen that affect the presence of calcium in the soil. Moisture in the soil also affects calcium. Further testing and analysis can provide better solutions to this problem.

    Overcoming the Challenge of Blossom End Rot

    Strive to keep the soil moist and foliar spray plants using calcium solution or kelp. It may also help to add high levels of calcium like oyster shell, bone meal, or gypsum to the soil when planting to prevent the problem from developing. Using mulch, straw, compost, or grass also helps preserve soil moisture, especially during the hot and dry days and promote an even water supply. Minimize the usage of high-nitrogen fertilizers that can accelerate vegetative growth and lower calcium uptake. Fixing the blossom end rot will save your harvest, so do whatever you can to mitigate the harm it brings forth or prevents the problem from sprouting in the first place. 

    FAQ’s

    Can you stop blossom end rot once it starts?

    Blossom End Rot is a condition that can start as early as when the plant is young and can last for months. A small piece of the fruit, usually the blossom end, will have a white, dry or soft area that is covered in brown spots. It’s also known as BER and is caused by a build up of calcium in the tissue of the fruit.

    Blossom end rot spreads very fast and is very hard to stop once it starts. It’s a challenge, but you can do it. It seems to be the most sensitive part of the plant.

    What are some ways that I can I help my plants overcome BER?

    One of the most effective things that you can do is add calcium to your plants.

    To make a liquid calcium fertilizer, mix one part limestone or dolomite with one part water. Mix the two together to make the fertilizer, and store it in a bottle or jar. Use the fertilizer by spreading it on your plants. Keep Learning Calcium is an essential mineral for plant growth, and it’s available from three sources: soil, water and air.

    Limestone is a calcium carbonate that’s found in rock formations and in some sea creatures. Dolomite is a calcium magnesium carbonate that’s found in igneous rock.

    You can also use calcium sulfate (gypsum) as a slow release source of calcium.

    Some people try fungicides, and they do work sometimes, but very often these don’t always do what they’re supposed to. It’s a matter of trying and hoping for the best if you go this route.

    People have more success with bone meal for instance.

    Does bone meal help blossom end rot?

    Yes, it helps prevent blossom end rot. Blossom end rot is a common problem with grain-fed cattle because of the high levels of saturated fatty acids in the diet. It’s also important to make sure the cattle are eating the proper ration. The ration should be around 3.

    Conclusion

    Observation, analysis, and application of proposed solutions will soon finally resolve existing challenges and problems. Knowing the species and its needs will enhance its fruits. 

    Plants are organisms that can make their own food. If these plants were ruined by diseases, it can cause a lot of troubles and can affect us all negatively. We must take good care of the remaining agricultural areas and vegetation and proactively overcome challenges along the way. 

  • How to Clone a Plant with Water

    How to Clone a Plant with Water

    So you might have heard that it is possible to clone a plant with water and wondered how they do it. Plant cloning is a lot different from the type of cloning you may be thinking. Before I knew what the term meant, I used to think plant cloning involved trying to create a new plant from an old one, and that it would need to be carried out in the laboratory with men in white coats, mixing different compounds and staring into a microscope. But while I wasn’t entirely wrong, it was nothing like the Frankenstein movie I imagined it to be. So then what is plant cloning, and how can you clone a plant? 

    What is Plant Cloning? 

    Plant cloning is a process that is used to replicate specific characteristics that a mother plant possesses in her offspring. The features needed to replicate could include height, adaptability, flowers, leaves, and color. 

    It is easy to clone a plant, and anyone can do it once they learn how to. While it may seem like the process requires a lot, all that you need is to take a clipping or cutting from a plant and place it in a glass of water. Keep the glass of water by the window and then give it a few days until you notice changes in the root of the new plant. To be able to carry out the cloning successfully, you will need just the right materials, which we will be talking about in the next section. 

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    How to Successfully Clone a Plant with Water

    There are many reasons why gardeners clone a plant. For some, it is to be able to quickly and efficiently create a new plant; for others, it is to replicate the genes and traits of an existing plant into a new plant. The entire process might sound like something technical that requires the expertise of biologists of other scientists, but that is not true. With the right materials and method of planting, you should be able to get the job done right and without difficulty. 

    You Need the Right Materials 

    Just as you cannot catch a fish without fishing gear, it will be impossible to clone a plant on its own without the right set of tools. 

    Some of the essential tools to get the job done include:

    • A container 

    You would need a plastic container to hold the growing medium for your new species. The type of container to use will depend on the kind of plant you are looking to clone. For large plants, you will require a large bowl or drum while a pail will be just right for an indoor plant. 

    While it is common to find gardeners cloning plants in pots, we recommend using a transparent plastic so you can follow up on the root development. 

    • Rockwool or Soil 

    You also need a propagation medium for the new plant to grow in. Ideally, you may decide to settle for potting soil, but you can also try using Rockwool if you know just how to. While it may be quite easy to plant in a soil medium, it requires a bit of expertise to be able to clone plants in Rockwool if you are a first-timer. For example, you will need to soak it overnight in the right pH water and also have to dissect holes in the middle of the Rockwool block, which can be all too complicated if you have never tried it before. We also recommend that you avoid using backyard soil and opt for potting or composted garden soil to give your clone the right start to maturity. 

    • Root Hormones 

    You may also need to use root hormones as part of the cloning process. They contain synthetic auxins which help the plant to grow. Their function is to influence root development and kickstart the cloning process. It is essential to note that if you are big on organic gardening, using root hormones may not be a good idea since it contains toxins that can be harmful to you. Natural alternatives such as cinnamon, willow tea, and apple cider vinegar are a safer option than synthetic auxins. You may also consider cloning tomatoes since they quickly produce natural auxins than many other plants. 

    Begin the Cloning Process

    Once you have all your materials sorted out, the next step is to begin the planting process, which you can do in less than 10 minutes. All you need to do is to; 

    • Fill your container with soil or Rockwool. 

    You will need to drill a hole at the bottom of the container if you decide to use soil as the growing medium, while the pot can also house your chunk of Rockwool if you choose to go with that. 

    • Water the soil 

    Once you have sorted out the above, you will then have to water the soil to improve its water content. There will be no need if you are using Rockwool since it has been soaked the night before. 

    How to Clone a Plant with Water

    • Cut the Stem and plant

    You will then need to make a diagonal cutting of any lateral stem you intend to clone. We suggest lateral stems instead of a diagonal one since they shoot directly from the roots. Once you have this, you will need to dip the end in your root hormone if you are using one. Once you have the bottom in the rooting hormone, the next step will be to immerse it in the hole we created in the container earlier when we filled it with soil. Lastly, you will need to cover the container in plastic or grass; and this is necessary to keep the moisture intact and enhance the growth process. 

    After you have successfully cloned your plant, you will need to transfer your pot or medium that houses the new clone to a warm area away from direct sunlight. You will also have to keep the soil moist so that the plant can get the right environment to grow. 

    So now you know how it is to clone a plant with water, we hope you will give it a try and experiment with your garden plants if you haven’t tried it before. Feel free to ask any questions in the comment section. We love to hear from you.