If we have a land that has suffered the effects of erosion, or if for years plants have been cultivated without any control, it is most likely that that land is no longer fertile. When that happens, we have to provide materials, preferably organic, so that the soil can be cultivated again.
But What are soil amendments?
What is a biosimilar
An amendment is the contribution of a fertilizer or materials that improve the quality of a soil, its structure, its composition, the pH, and the availability of nutrients. There are of several types:
- Organic products: such as guano, manure or slurry. They are the most recommended, since they benefit both the structure of the soil and the microbial life in it. In addition, they favor water retention and increase the availability of nutrients.
- Limestone or sulfur: they are used to modify the pH, that is, to make a soil more alkaline or more acidic.
- Plaster: gypsum is applied to decrease the sodium of a soda soil.
When do they apply?
Amendments can be applied whenever necessary, but it is especially advisable when the soil has been "mistreated", that is, when it has been eroding, or when some plants have been intensively cultivated.
They can also be applied in cases where we want to improve the properties of the land; for example, if we have a soil that is poor in nutrients, too acidic or alkaline, or with difficulties to retain water.
What are its benefits?
Providing amendments brings with it several very interesting benefits:
- They improve water retention.
- Unlock minerals.
- They increase the percentage of organic matter.
- They activate the microbial flora, which favors the development of the roots.
As you can see, amending the soil is a task that can help us to have better crops and a more beautiful garden 🙂.
Hello, is there a time of year when it is best not to mulch? Thank you
Hi Marian.
No, there is no time that is less favorable. Mulch is a soil that has many nutrients, which will be absorbed by the plant when it needs them.
A greeting.