Soil Requirements Part 1

GROWING MEDIA

Media Material used to grow plants Mixture of ingredients

Perlite Volcanic ash material Used for starting new plants Media mix

Vermiculite Mineral mica material Used with starting seeds and cuttings Used in media mixes

Sphagnum Moss Used to encourage root growth

Peat Moss Used in media mixes of all types Holds water

Water Media used in Hydroponics

AMENDING pH

pH Acidity of the soil Affects the availability of nutrients in the soil

pH Scale 0-14 pH best suited for most plants

Amendment Anything added to make soil better such as organic matter, nutrients, pH modifiers

Lime Used to raise the pH of soil Contains calcium and magnesium

Sulfur Used to lower the pH of soil

Compost Partially decayed organic matter composed of leaves, manure, and household waste

FERTILIZERS

Fertilizer When added to soil causes more nutrients in the plant where concentrations are low

Complete fertilizer Contains the three essential nutrients: 1.Nitrogen 2.Phosphorus 3.Potassium N – P – K

Nitrogen Causes plants to “green up” Stimulates growth

Phosphorous Encourages blooming

Potassium Encourages root development

2 types of Fertilizers Organic Inorganic

Organic Fertilizer Natural Product Slow acting and long lasting Animal manure (dried & pulverized) Bone meal (P is main ingredient) High in nitrogen Low in P & K

Inorganic Fertilizers Higher soluble nutrients Man-made Miracle Grow

FERTILIZER APPLICATION

Broadcasting Spread evenly over the entire surface Used on turf and lawns

Side-dressing Placing fertilizer in bands beside of rows Appx. 8” from plant

Foliar Spraying directly onto the leaves of the plant

Soil Requirements Part 1