What to add to the soil in spring
Sharing knowledge about what to add to the soil in spring and what materials should be added when potting plants in spring. Next, the editor will introduce the topic to netizens.
Spring is a busy season, unlike winter when many plants enter dormancy due to low temperatures. That's the most relaxed season. In spring, plants awaken and enter the growing period. There are many tasks to be done, such as repotting, especially for plants that have just finished blooming in winter. If a change of soil is needed, this is the most appropriate time. When repotting, don't just replace the potting mix. In addition to cutting the plant roots, it's also necessary to add some materials to the soil, enriching it with nutrients and making it more fertile, resulting in larger and healthier roots that can thrive for three years.
Beginner's tip
Plants generally need to change the potting mix every two to three years. Beyond this period, the nutrients in the soil are almost depleted, which is not conducive to root development. Moreover, most plants prefer to grow in slightly acidic soil. Over time, the soil can become alkaline and compacted, leading to growth stagnation and continuous yellowing of leaves.
When repotting, it is recommended not to water the plants for a week in advance to allow the soil to dry out, making it easier to remove the plant from the pot. If the soil is too wet, it can stick to the pot and cause root damage during repotting.
First, add eggshell powder
Everyone eats eggs, and the leftover eggshells should not be thrown away. The main component of eggshells is calcium carbonate, which can release many trace elements and minerals after reacting with organic acids. This is very beneficial for root development. Additionally, the granular material can also improve soil aeration and drainage, preventing soil compaction.
Eggshells cannot be used directly. Placing them directly on the soil surface will not work. They need to be soaked in water to remove any remaining egg yolk, then dried in a sunny place for 5 to 7 days, crushed into small particles or ground into powder, and mixed into the potting mix. The soil will be rich in nutrients and can also be used as a top dressing later.
Second, add shrimp or crab shells
Shortly after the New Year, don't throw away the leftover shrimp or crab shells. They are treasures for growing flowers, as they can decompose into many phosphorus elements. It's best if the shells are salt-free, as salt can exacerbate compaction.
Clean the shrimp or crab shells and dry them in the sun. The hard shells will become brittle and can be crushed easily, then directly mixed into the potting mix.
You can also ferment the shrimp or crab shells into fertilizer water. Take an empty mineral water bottle, crush the shells slightly, add some water, and place it in a sunny area to ferment. When using, dilute with water, which works as a powerful fertilizer to boost plant growth.
Third, add peanut shells
Peanut shells are also good for growing flowers. When repotting, you can place peanut shells directly at the bottom of the pot to create a drainage layer, which provides good aeration and drainage. If too much water is poured, it can be quickly drained, preventing waterlogging.
Or crush salt-free peanut shells and mix them with the soil to increase the humus content, decompose nutrients, provide good aeration, and quickly absorb excess water to prevent soil moisture and root rot.
Fourth, add willow bark
Most plants prefer to grow in slightly acidic environments, such as gardenias, jasmines, azaleas, camellias, kaffir lilies, aspidistra, and more. When repotting these plants in spring, remember to add some willow bark to the pot. Willow bark can help regulate soil acidity, prevent alkalization, and keep the soil loose and fertile, resulting in robust and healthy roots. This type of potting mix can be used for two to three years without issues.
The detailed introduction of what to add to the soil in spring and what materials should be added when repotting in spring brought by Greenery Enthusiast website, have you understood it?