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Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences

Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences

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Understanding Soil Fertility from an Urban Grower Perspective

The excitement of watching a seed sprout into a flourishing plant is a joy for all who cultivate their own urban gardens. Many think of soil as a mere support for those plants, a substance that anchors them into the ground. However, soil is a dynamic and life-sustaining medium that nourishes plants. There is a complex ecosystem beneath the soil surface, composed of minerals, organic matter, water, air, and countless microorganisms. Understanding soil fertility is vital to plant growth. This publication is written for individuals tending to lawns, shrubs, trees, or flowers in urban settings. It introduces essential terms of soil fertility, explains the role of soil properties in supporting healthy plants, and familiarizes readers with methods to enhance soil fertility within the context of urban settings. It also serves as a guide to empower non-farmers and urban residents, offering insights into plant nutrient requirements and the principles of effective nutritional care.

When to Lime Soil and Liming Products Available in Florida

It is essential to maintain the desired pH of the soil in order to cultivate plants that are robust and prolific. This axiom is true regardless of whether one is growing crops or plants in an agricultural or urban setting. Because it has a direct impact on the availability of essential plant nutrients, soil pH, also noted as the “soil reaction,” is a crucial factor to consider. The internet is rife with misleading information describing the concept of soil acidity and alkalinity as well as how the soil reaction affects plant growth. If you want to change the pH of Florida soil, it is not advisable to use the information found on the internet, as different types of soil require different lime quantities, types, and application techniques. In contrast, some soils may require elemental sulfur application to lower the soil pH. In Florida, recommendations to change soil pH should come from a local expert.

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