7 Best Soil Amendments You Need To Know

The requirements of your garden soil continue to change over time. To enhance its physical properties, you need to monitor its condition and make adjustments accordingly. These adjustments involve adding both organic and inorganic substances to the soil, collectively known as soil amendments.

#7. Biochar:

Biochar is a soil superhero made by burning plants in a special way, creating a carbon-rich treasure.

This magical addition enhances soil by improving its structure and helping it retain water.

Picture it as a shield for your soil, making it more resilient and ready to support plant life.

It’s like a secret weapon that brings environmental benefits, renewing the energy of your garden soil in a superhero-friendly manner.

via: way.of.the.earth.school

The most basic method: in a shallow pit or just on the ground light a fire and load brush on, keeping it very hot. By keeping it hot, you rob the materials at the bottom of oxygen which results in chunks of pure carbon (the biochar). You load it for as long as you can, and then put it out with snow or water before it turns to ash. Take those chunks, soak them in a bucket of urine for a day or two, and then mix them into your garden or bury them in pockets around fruit or nut trees. This is one of the best ways to help the plant and soil realm thrive!

6. Aged Animal Manure:

Think of aged animal manure as nature’s fertilizer – a slow-release superhero food for your soil.

Unlike fresh manure, which can be too strong, aged manure is like a superhero in disguise.

It contains nutrients that plants love, promoting fertility and ensuring the health of your garden soil.

It’s the behind-the-scenes hero that keeps your plants thriving and your garden safe.

5. Ashes:

Wood ashes from your fireplace are like magical dust for your soil.

They contain essential elements such as potassium and calcium, acting as a superhero remedy for soil pH issues.

Adjusting the acidity levels, ashes ensure your garden soil becomes a balanced and welcoming environment for plant growth.

However, use them wisely, as too much of this magic dust can be overwhelming for your plants.

4. Bone Meal:

Meet bone meal, the soil nutrition specialist. It’s like a superhero meal plan for your garden, providing essential phosphorus for flower power.

With a nutrient ratio of 3-15-0, it’s a tailored diet for flower plants like bulbs and roses.

Sprinkle a bit of bone meal, and your garden will be like a gourmet feast for your floral friends.

3. Blood Meal:

Dried blood meal is the superhero sidekick, offering a natural and powerful source of nitrogen for your garden soil.

Derived from processing cattle, it’s like a nutrient-packed energy drink for your plants.

Picture it as the fitness trainer for your garden, ensuring robust growth and vitality.

2. Seaweed:

Seaweed is the ocean’s gift to your garden, packed with minerals like zinc, potassium, nitrogen, iron, and magnesium.

As a superhero fertilizer, seaweed fulfills the nutritional needs of specific plants. It’s like a nutritious smoothie for your garden, supporting healthy and vibrant growth.

Keep using seaweed, and your plants will be the envy of the neighborhood.

1.  Greensand:

Greensand, the moisture-retaining superhero, is like a special potion for your soil.

It’s a marine sediment rich in potassium, iron, and various minerals, ensuring your soil stays hydrated and nutrient-rich.

It’s the guardian that prevents soil infertility due to lack of moisture, maintaining an ideal environment for your plants to flourish.

Coconut Chunk

via: mihomenest

Enter the coconut chunk – the gardener’s secret weapon for water retention and soil structure.

These oversized chunks act like sponges, holding plenty of moisture while providing vital air space for roots to breathe and grow.

It’s the cozy home your plants deserve, offering a perfect blend of hydration and aeration for a thriving garden.