As the Master Gardener stated, compost is very important for your garden. It helps your soil to retain moisture, reduces weeds, makes your soil more loam-like, and adds nutrients for healthy plants. The Gardener stated that she places approximately 4" to the top of her soil each February or March. If you soil is hard, you can work the compost in, and then place a layer on top of the soil. This will filter down into the soil as time goes by. Our instructor stated that she does not have to fertilize when she composts. Compost will not burn your plants. A friend of mine, Sherry H., uses compost twice each year, and says that this works out really well. She actually has a composter in her back yard which you can turn by a handle, making it easier than having to hoe and shovel around....
If you choose to use fertilizer, here are some notes on what the different ingredients do for you:
Nitrogen encourages leafy growth and green color.
Phosphorus encourages healthy roots
Potassium is good over-all.
Next few blogs will address home remedies for garden ills, and I will post some pics from my gardens and those of a few of my friends.
Remember to order your corn soon! It is a great deal, and we will be able to dry can it in August!
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