Organic Soil

Organic Soil: The Root of Healthy Growing

You’ve planted your veggies!  Now you’re wondering how to keep them producing, and how to achieve the most nutritious crops.  It comes down to the ground – literally.

Plants depend on the soil to provide water and nutrients.  When we harvest crops, we are removing nutrients that must be replenished in the soil to keep future plants healthy.  Compost is the primary addition that will restore your soil, as it is broken down by soil organisms and plant roots.  Add compost before planting any new crop. 

Always keep your soil covered with a layer of organic mulch, such as shredded leaves or dry grass clippings, to retain moisture and nutrients.  As it improves, your soil will turn dark and crumbly – think of chocolate cake!  OK, chocolate cake doesn’t have earthworms.

Organic fertilizers add the major nutrients nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, along with many micronutrients that are essential for plant health and for the flavor of vegetables and fruits.  Organic fertilizers are gradually broken down by microorganisms, which release the nutrients slowly so they are not wasted.  Most nurseries sell granular organic fertilizers; follow the directions and change products from time to time, so you get a variety of nutrients.

For a quick “pick me up” for your plants, use a fish emulsion product diluted as instructed on the label.   Another helpful product is liquid kelp, which contains minerals from the ocean and which helps plants to withstand stress such as cold and heat.

Think about free sources of organic matter that you can collect and use, from dried leaves to grass clippings to coffee grounds. 

Focus on improving your soil, and your plants will be healthier and more resistant to disease and pests.  And you will harvest nutritious produce that will really taste good!