Gardening Essentials: Watering, Fertilization, and Soil Selection

Watering Techniques

• Overwatering: can lead to root rot and other problems; check soil moisture before watering
• Underwatering: can cause stress, wilted leaves, and reduced growth; increase watering frequency
• Watering schedules: water plants when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch
• Watering methods:
  • Top watering: water flows through the soil, encouraging healthy root growth
  • Bottom watering: water is absorbed through the drainage holes, reducing waterlogged soil
  • Misting: gentle, frequent watering for plants that prefer high humidity
• Water quality: use room-temperature water; avoid using softened water, which can contain high levels of sodium

Fertilization Methods

• Types of fertilizers:
  • Synthetic fertilizers: quick release of nutrients, but can cause environmental harm
  • Organic fertilizers: slow release of nutrients, environmentally friendly
  • Compost: nutrient-rich, natural fertilizer
• Fertilization schedules:
  • Fertilize during the growing season: promote healthy growth and development
  • Fertilize sparingly during the dormant season: avoid promoting weak growth
• Fertilization methods:
  • Foliar feeding: apply fertilizer directly to leaves for quick absorption
  • Soil application: mix fertilizer into the soil for slow release of nutrients
  • Compost tea: steep compost in water to create a nutrient-rich liquid fertilizer

Soil Selection

• Soil types:
  • Clay soil: retains water, but can be dense and slow-draining
  • Sandy soil: drains quickly, but can be dry and lacking in nutrients
  • Loamy soil: balanced mix of clay, silt, and sand, ideal for most plants
• Soil components:
  • Organic matter: improves soil structure, fertility, and water-holding capacity
  • Porous materials: improve drainage and aeration, such as perlite or vermiculite
  • Nutrient-rich additives: such as bone meal or worm castings, provide essential nutrients
• Soil pH:
  • Acidic soil: pH 0-6.9, suitable for acid-loving plants like azaleas and rhododendrons
  • Alkaline soil: pH 7-14, suitable for plants like succulents and cacti
  • Neutral soil: pH 7, suitable for most plants