Soil Care

Having healthy soil is essential for successful gardening for several reasons:

Nutrients for plants: Healthy soil contains essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are necessary for plant growth. These nutrients are made available to plants through organic matter decomposition and microbial activity.

Water retention: Healthy soil has good structure, allowing it to retain moisture while also providing adequate drainage. This balance is crucial for plant health, as both waterlogged and overly dry soils can stunt growth or cause plant stress.

Soil is alive!: Healthy soil is teeming with beneficial microbes such as bacteria, fungi, and earthworms. These organisms play vital roles in nutrient cycling, disease suppression, and maintaining soil structure.

Root development: Soil structure affects root growth and development. Healthy soil provides a supportive environment for root expansion, allowing plants to establish strong root systems for better nutrient uptake and stability.

Prevent diseases: Some soils contain beneficial microorganisms that can suppress harmful pathogens. Healthy soil with diverse microbial populations can help prevent diseases that can harm plants.

Carbon sequestration: Healthy soil acts as a carbon sink, helping to mitigate climate change by storing carbon from organic matter. This process, known as carbon sequestration, reduces the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

Healthy soil = healthy plants: Healthy soil leads to improved plant growth, vigor, and yield. Plants grown in healthy soil are more resistant to stressors such as drought, pests, and diseases, resulting in better overall garden productivity.

HOW TO TAKE SOIL SAMPLES? Download the handout here!

Last updated February 27, 2024