How to Get Multiple Stems on an Orchid: It’s Easy!
Coming from tropical forests, orchids are lovely plants which produce beautiful flowers and are a […]
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Soil Health
Soil health is a complex topic that encompasses many different aspects of land management. In order to have healthy soil, we need to think about how we are managing our mulch, compost, cover crops, fertilizers, plant residues, and tillage practices. By following some simple tips and adjusting our management practices accordingly, we can greatly improve the health of our soil! When it comes to soil protection, mulch plays a vital role. It not only helps retain moisture but also prevents weeds from taking over and reduces the need for tillage. There’s composting too – It can help provide essential nutrients to the soil and increase its organic matter content. Gardeners know the importance of cover crops, which are planted as a living mulch and protect the soil from erosion, compaction, and leaching of nutrients. Fertilizers can also be used to maintain soil health, but care should be taken here – over-fertilizing can have negative consequences for both the environment and your plants. Plant residues, such as leaves and stems, can improve soil health by providing organic matter, improving water-holding capacity, and reducing soil erosion. Lastly, tillage practices also play an essential role in maintaining soil health. Regular tilling disturbs the structure of the soil and reduces its fertility over time. It’s best to limit tillage to times when it’s vital.